Last week, we shared news of something that’s been in the works for several months. After nine years of serving as the executive director for the Minneapolis Parks Foundation, I’ve recognized that I’m ready for a change and new challenges. The Parks Foundation is in a strong position for this transition and continued success, so the time feels right to keep the momentum going by passing the baton to new leadership. A search for my replacement is underway, led by local firm KpCompanies in a holistic, inclusive way. The Parks Foundation Executive Director job description is available here.

I’ve been working closely with the Parks Foundation Board of Directors and staff to develop a plan for the transition and will continue serving in my role through the end of the year to support the search for the next leader, who will begin in early 2024.

I can’t begin to fully express my gratitude for all those who’ve played a role in supporting the Parks Foundation and our mission during my tenure. There is an entire community of people who are passionate about our parks and have dedicated extensive time, talent, and resources into fostering a strong philanthropic partner to the Minneapolis park system and the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. I have no doubt that the organization’s best years are still ahead.

Minneapolis is blessed with an incredible park system, a generous community that wants to transform lives through our parks, and a deep roster of park professionals, elected and nonprofit leaders, and volunteers who make the Minneapolis park system the best in the nation. While I will be stepping out of this specific role, anyone who knows me knows that I will remain committed to the power of parks. And in turn, the staff and board of the Parks Foundation is one of the most talented, dedicated group our city could hope for.

Minneapolis offers a grand example of what a healthy, thriving city park system can be. It also offers many opportunities to bridge the gaps that persist. With continued work, I truly believe our park system will help make Minneapolis even healthier and whole.

I will share more about my future in the coming months. For now, I’m committed to finishing this role well and ensuring that our positive momentum continues.

There is much more to come.