Darryl Young, a nonresident fellow at the Urban Institute, is a leader in environmental conservation and sustainable development, recognized for his strategic leadership and commitment to community resilience. As executive director of the Merck Family Fund, he advanced initiatives in environmental protection. He directed the Sustainable Cities Program at the Summit Foundation, providing resources and connections for urban sustainability leaders.

Young previously directed the California Department of Conservation, where he managed an agency overseeing recycling, open space and farmland preservation, geological hazards, and mineral exploration. He also served on the California Board of Forestry and spent a decade in the California state legislature, culminating as chief consultant to the Senate Natural Resources and Wildlife Committee.

In the nonprofit sector, Young is chair emeritus of Main Street America, underscoring his commitment to community development. He has served on the boards of the Environmental Grantmakers Association, the Climate and Energy Funders Group, and the Reloop Platform. His past board roles include the Funders Network, the TransitCenter Foundation, and the Story of Stuff Project, and he was president of the National Recycling Coalition.

Young's academic background in environmental studies and political science and public service from the University of California, Davis, complements his professional work. His passion for environmental sustainability and community development is evident in his ongoing involvement in various initiatives, highlighting his expertise in guiding organizations toward their missions.