#USA #Washington #National Park Foundation #Mike Reynolds #parks leadership

Mike Reynolds Takes the Helm at the National Park Foundation

On August 3, 2026, Mike Reynolds was officially appointed as the Chief Program Officer of the National Park Foundation (NPF). With a remarkable career spanning over 40 years with the National Park Service (NPS), Reynolds is expected to make significant contributions to the foundation's mission to support America's national parks. This leadership role comes after the successful four-year tenure of Lise Aangeenbrug.

Extensive Background in National Park Service

Reynolds's history with NPS includes key positions that allowed him to gain invaluable insights into park management and community engagement. Prior to joining NPF, he served as the Deputy Director of External and Congressional Affairs, and has direct experience from various iconic parks such as Yosemite, Cape Cod, Fire Island, Mojave, and Olympic. His diverse leadership roles, including being appointed as the acting director of NPS in 2017, showcase his thorough understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing national parks today.

Focus on Grant Programs and Partnerships

In his new capacity at NPF, Reynolds will oversee grant-making initiatives aimed at bolstering national parks and the networks of non-profit partners that support them. Last year, NPF successfully delivered over $83.8 million in grants. Mike's main focus will be to expand grant operations, ensuring that funding is allocated where it's most needed within the national park system. He has expressed a desire to enhance collaboration with local non-profits, numbering over 470, which play a key role in the maintenance and operation of parks across the country.

Vision for the Future

Reynolds understands the importance of collaboration in fostering park resilience. "During my tenure at NPS, it became evident that our parks only thrive because of partnerships that are willing to invest in their future, including the support of the National Park Foundation," he reflected on his commitment to deepening connections between parks and the communities they serve. Under his leadership, NPF aims to expand initiatives related to conservation, youth engagement, and park innovation.

Building Community Engagement

Reynolds's approach emphasizes creating a community-centric environment where park partnerships can flourish. By actively engaging with park supporters, Reynolds aims to inspire a new generation of visitors and advocates for national parks, ensuring that these natural treasures remain protected and celebrated for years to come. Moreover, his role on the Fairfax County Park Authority Board for the Providence District and his leadership position with the Chesapeake Conservancy underscores his commitment to public service and conservation efforts.

The National Park Foundation's Role

The National Park Foundation plays a crucial role in safeguarding wildlife and park landscapes while promoting public education and youth engagement related to parks. By working closely with NPS and its partners, the foundation aims to strengthen both the organizational and philanthropic capabilities that are essential for the longevity of America’s national parks. The appointment of Mike Reynolds is seen as a strategic move to further these goals in a rapidly changing environmental landscape.

In conclusion, Mike Reynolds’s extensive experience and passion for national parks, combined with his vision for the future, position him as an ideal leader for the National Park Foundation. His work will be instrumental in advancing the foundation's efforts to support and enhance the park experience for visitors all across the nation. Together with the park partner community, Reynolds is set to make a remarkable impact on America’s treasured landscapes.

For more information about the National Park Foundation and its initiatives, visit nationalparks.org.