Press release:
Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation announces new board officers, trustees, and advisors
New members bring wealth of knowledge in philanthropy, environmental protection, health, business, law and marketing(WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.) – The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of new officers and the addition of members to its board of trustees and council of advisors. With diverse backgrounds, these individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the nonprofit’s leadership.
At a November board meeting, former secretary and retired editor Jack Betts of Meadows of Dan, Virginia, was named chair of the board of trustees. Wake Forest University professor Cynthia Evans Tessien of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, will serve as vice chair. Dr. Olson Huff of Black Mountain, North Carolina, will serve as secretary. The Foundation also welcomed Alfred G. Adams of Winston-Salem and Craig Lancaster of Fletcher, North Carolina, to the board of trustees.
The council of advisors added several new members: Phillip Blumenthal, Marcia Greene, Charles Higgins, Sean Higgins, Lee Minor, Rebecca Reeve, Kent Tarbutton and Dan Wells.
“We are so fortunate to welcome new board members who are deeply committed to the safekeeping and betterment of the Blue Ridge Parkway,” says Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Foundation. “Each member brings a breadth of experience that strengthens our multifaceted approach to preserving the Blue Ridge Parkway.”
Betts expressed his commitment to and hopes for the Parkway. “Nearly half a century ago I fell in love with the Blue Ridge Parkway’s magnificent vistas and charming lodges, but I’m saddened that some facilities are shuttered and roadside overlooks overgrown,” he said. “The good news is that the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, working with the National Park Service, other nonprofit groups and many individuals, has made a huge difference in the backlog of maintenance and building of new facilities. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead to continue polishing one of the brightest gems in the National Park System – the Blue Ridge Parkway.”
During the meeting, Michael Hobbs, director of communications at UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Education and community volunteer Anne Barnes were honored for their service as trustees as they completed their terms. Both now join the council of advisors. Outgoing board chair Broaddus Fitzpatrick and vice chair Gary Stewart will continue to serve on the board of trustees.
The Foundation is the primary private fund-raising organization for the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing support for much-needed projects along the 469-mile route, including historical and cultural preservation, environmental protection, visitor amenities, and educational outreach. For more information, visit brpfoundation.org.
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