Richmond outdoor education leader to lead Friends of the James River Park

March 14, 2026 - 10:45

A prominent figure in Richmond's outdoor education community has been chosen to helm the Friends of the James River Park, the pivotal nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the city's iconic natural resource. The appointment marks a strategic shift towards deepening community engagement and educational outreach for the beloved park system.

The new executive director brings over two decades of experience fostering environmental stewardship through hands-on learning programs. This background is seen as ideal for the role, which focuses on advocacy, volunteer coordination, and fundraising for the park's maintenance, trails, and conservation projects. Supporters believe this leadership will strengthen the vital bridge between the park and the public, ensuring its health and accessibility for generations to come.

The James River Park, a cornerstone of Richmond's identity, attracts over two million visitors annually with its urban trails, rapids, and wildlife. The Friends group plays an essential role in supplementing city resources, organizing thousands of volunteer hours each year for clean-ups and restoration. This change in leadership comes at a time of growing focus on the park's ecological balance and its role in community well-being, setting a course for continued preservation and enhanced public enjoyment of this urban wilderness.