New York State’s Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has announced the appointment of two new leaders to its team. L. Simone Washington has been named Chief Equity Officer, while Dr. June Chin will take over as Chief Medical Officer. The hires are part of the OCM’s commitment to promoting social and economic equity, public health, and responsible cannabis regulation across the state.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Chin and Ms. Washington to our team,” said Felicia A.B. Reid, Acting Executive Director of the OCM. “Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the cannabis industry’s needs. We are confident that their expertise will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen New York’s cannabis market and grow as an agency.”
As Chief Equity Officer, Washington will focus on expanding the OCM’s equity-focused initiatives. She previously served as Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer at Wellspring Philanthropic.
Dr. Chin brings over two decades of experience in integrative cannabis medicine, research, and public health advocacy to her new role. She previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell and also worked as Vice Chair of the New York State Cannabis Advisory Board and Chairperson of the Health, Safety, and Research Committee.
The OCM’s new hires are expected to play a key role in shaping the state’s cannabis regulations and ensuring that the industry is fair and equitable for all stakeholders.
