Dear Forest Park Conservancy supporters,
Fall is my favorite season. The cool, crisp air and beautiful colors are all high points but I also enjoy slowing down a bit and allowing for more self-reflection, and, of course, and it’s no surprise the single best place I have found to do this thinking is on the trails of Forest Park.
Fall is also known as a time for change, and we at Forest Park Conservancy are currently working through a transition in leadership. Recently, Marianne Wilburn stepped down from her role as executive director to pursue a new opportunity for herself and her family. On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, I would like to express deep gratitude and appreciation for Marianne’s tenure. The organization is in a much better place as a result of her strong leadership, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors.
During this interim period, Forest Park Conservancy’s Board has hired Haley Blackman as managing director. Her experience and skill set make her optimally positioned to lead FPC over these next few months with a priority on leading staff, programmatic and strategic leadership, fundraising, and overseeing the hiring process for a permanent executive director. Haley has built and led teams and has a strong passion for Forest Park and FPC. The Board and I have high confidence that she will do an excellent job.
While these changes are never easy, I am heartened by the passionate staff of FPC as well as our dedicated Board of Directors. The mission of protecting the ecological health of Forest Park and Marquam Nature Park is what fuels the organization and we will continue our work as passionately as ever.
In addition to leading work parties and working closely with the city to maintain and restore trails, our staff is preparing for important advocacy efforts to protect Forest Park. One of the components of our advocacy efforts is PGE’s Harborton Reliability Project, which would permit the removal of 5 acres of trees in Forest Park if approved. Staff and board will continue to support and advocate for the protection of Forest Park as a treasured public space. Stay tuned for more details as we work with other organizations and community partners for ways we can connect with the public to share more details about the proposal. Our goal is to provide you with the tools needed for you to share your concerns during the public comment period.
Thank you for your continued support. We will be sure to let you know more about the executive director search as the process unfolds. If you want to keep up to date on everything Forest Park Conservancy, consider subscribing to our online newsletter.
With sincere gratitude,
Vinay Prasad
Board Chair, Forest Park Conservancy
