Date: September 3, 2009
Contact: Holly Bundock, (510) 817-1320
Frank Dean, a 33 year veteran of the National Park Service (NPS) is appointed as Deputy Superintendent of Golden Gate National Recreation Area (NRA) in San Francisco and Marin Counties, it was announced today by NPS Regional Director Jonathan B. Jarvis.
"Frank returns to Golden Gate bringing strong leadership skills, a desire to work inclusively, and a solid background in park management." Jarvis said in making the appointment. "He has served with distinction this summer at Golden Gate NRA in the acting capacity of the superintendent and knows the critical issues facing the park."
Dean replaces Mai-Liis Bartling who retired in June. During this interim period and following the death of General Superintendent Brian O’ Neill, Dean has stepped in as Acting Superintendent for the park.
"I have had the rare opportunity of working alongside and learning the values of partnership and civic engagement with a master, General Superintendent Brian O’Neill," Dean said in accepting the position. "It will be my distinct pleasure to respect the solid working relationships and build upon strong management values."
Dean transfers from the office of the NPS Director in Washington, D.C. where he was chief of the NPS Centennial Coordination and Planning Office. From 2002 to 2007, he served as superintendent of Saratoga National Historical Park, NY and as Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Frank also has worked in western national park areas as a ranger in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Golden Gate NRA. He was the management assistant at Yosemite National Park and the Chief Ranger and Assistant Superintendent at Point Reyes National Seashore.
A General Superintendent is expected to be named this fall to replace Brian O’Neill. Until this appointment is made, Dean will continue to act in this capacity. Craig Kenkel will continue his role as Golden Gate NRA’s acting deputy superintendent until Frank moves into the position upon selection of the Superintendent.
Golden Gate NRA encompasses 75,000 acres of nationally significant shoreline and coastal mountains of San Francisco, Marin and San Mateo Counties including Fort Point National Historical Site, Muir Woods National Monument, Mori Point, Crissy Field, Alcatraz and the Presidio.
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Editor’s Note: Dean can be reached at 415-561-4720 for interviews.
