Dr. Ruzow Holland’s specialization in applied public policy and administration, with
particular emphasis on environmental and community economic development, is grounded
in Critical Theory and utilizes Participatory Action Research and Mixed Methods. In her earlier professional life, Ann managed community and environmental planning,
housing, infrastructure and agricultural development, renewable energy, housing, health
care, hazard mitigation, disaster assistance, and facility improvement projects and
programs. Holland is considered a master grant writer.
Ann founded, and then for 21 years acted as executive director of Friends of the North
Country, Inc., a nonprofit organization recognized as a leader in sustainable development.
She has collaborated with federal and state agencies to bring financial and technical
resources to local communities. Holland has special experience working as a project
liaison for multi-million-dollar green technology projects, as a GASB advisor and
a grants subject-matter-expert. She now works with governments, non-profit organizations,
universities, and businesses as a freelance consultant and advisor. She provides a
range of services associated with environmental planning, sustainability, citizen
participation, and organizational management.
Dr. Ruzow Holland’s consulting company is a registered NYS Woman-Based Enterprise.
In this capacity she created and piloted the Advanced Circuit Rider Management Coaching
and Training Program for the New York Land Trust Alliance, prepared an extensive variety
and number of economic, comprehensive land use, watershed, and strategic plans for
regional environmental organizations and local governments. She has served as an advisor
to many local, regional, and international organizations and currently serves on the
Board of the Lake Champlain Committee, the Northern Forest Center, and the New York
Main Street Alliance. She also serves on the International Joint Commission Lake Champlain-Richelieu
River Study Team Public Advisory Group and is a long-standing member of the League
of Women Voters, Plattsburgh, Clinton, and Essex Counties.