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Contact: Mindi Rambo, 212-668-2208
New York, NY – The National Park Service (NPS) has selected Patti Reilly as the new superintendent for Governors Island National Monument, one of 10 parks in the National Parks of New York Harbor. Reilly succeeds Linda Neal as superintendent, who has accepted a job in Washington, D.C., as the new program coordinator for NPS’ Partnership Construction Process. “As the park’s first superintendent, Linda laid a good foundation for Patti to build upon,” said Maria Burks, commissioner of the National Parks of New York Harbor. “The general management plan is nearing completion, a new dock is under construction and significant capital projects are in the pipeline. Patti has the type of experience and determination to lead at a time where the full potential of Governors Island National Monument is just coming into view.” Reilly most recently served as the acting superintendent for the Jamaica Bay unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. She was previously the program manager for Partnerships and Agreements for NPS’ Northeast Region Office of Interpretation and Education, where she worked on regional and national education strategies and partnership development. “Governors Island National Monument is a spectacular resource with its breath taking views, rich coastal defense history and fortifications, and ecological wonders,” said Reilly. “My goal is to realize the vision presented during the General Management Planning process so that all Americans and international visitors can experience the power of this place. There is tremendous potential to develop a national model with this city, state, and federal partnership.” Reilly’s previous assignment include serving as the director of the Northeast Center for Education Services, as well as the director of the Parks as Classrooms® program at the National Park Foundation, NPS’ official nonprofit partner. She directed the foundation’s growing efforts in the field of education, providing support for education programs at national parks around the country. Reilly also served as an environmental education specialist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and prior to that she spent 11 years at Gateway National Recreation Area as a park ranger and chief of interpretation. A native of Queens, Reilly earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology from St. John’s University and a master’s in Marine Science from Long Island University. A recipient of two NPS Superior Achievement Awards, she has spent most of her nearly 30 years in federal service focusing on education and interpretation, park planning, operations, and partnerships. |
Last updated: February 26, 2015