Meet Our New Executive Director!
AJ visits the Sand Hill Nursery
Earth Day was particularly special this year.
That's because after two years without an Executive Director, we’re stepping into a new chapter—one rooted in community, collaboration, and care.
Meet AJ Hardie. Their first week? No desk. Just trail boots, trash bags, laughter with volunteers, and a whole lot of trashy conversations. “This place isn’t just beautiful—it’s beloved,” they told us. From getting their hands dirty to listening deeply, AJ is already walking the path—literally—with the people who make this work matter.'
AJ is a passionate leader with deep ties to North Carolina’s natural and cultural heritage, and brings a wealth of experience, vision, and a profound sense of homecoming to this role. "Starting as Executive Director at Asheville GreenWorks is part of a larger homecoming for me," AJ shares. "Bringing my skills, experience, and education to serve this community is a tremendous privilege for a kid who grew up immersed in the stories and traditions passed down from the Appalachian side of my family. I am immensely honored to contribute to building a society where everyone is included in discussions about the future of our region and our environment."
Born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, AJ comes from a family whose roots in the state stretch back many generations. While his path has taken him to many other places, North Carolina has always remained home—a sanctuary for connecting deeply with the living, breathing natural world. AJ’s professional background spans environmental research and education, advocacy, community organizing, and nonprofit leadership, with a commitment to environmental justice and uplifting historically excluded voices in conservation efforts.
AJ’s vision for Asheville GreenWorks centers on radical hope: fostering a future where environmental stewardship is deeply intertwined with social equity and community empowerment. As they begin their chapter in the over 50-year story of GreenWorks, AJ carries forward a legacy of grassroots action with fresh energy and inclusive leadership.
“We are thrilled to welcome AJ into the Asheville GreenWorks family as our next Executive Director," said Jenny Abla, Board Chair. “We’re incredibly excited about their passion for environmental stewardship and grateful for their dedication to community and recognizing the importance of every voice being heard.”
For more than half a century, Asheville GreenWorks has mobilized thousands of volunteers, planted tens of thousands of trees, cleaned up local rivers and streets, and empowered residents to take direct action for a healthier environment. AJ’s energy, expertise, and vision will nourish our mission to inspire, equip, and mobilize communities to create an equitable, climate-resilient future as we continue to adapt and reach new heights.
