News Release

Benjamin Hayes Named Superintendent of Stones River National Battlefield

Superintendent Ben Hayes

NPS PHOTO

News Release Date: December 5, 2024 ATLANTA — National Park Service (NPS) today announced the selection of Benjamin Hayes as the new superintendent for Stones River National Battlefield. Hayes begins his assignment on January 12, 2025. Stones River National Battlefield commemorates the Battle of Stones River, a three-day American Civil War battle fought between December 31, 1862 and January 2, 1863 near the city of Murfreesboro, TN.  

“Benjamin brings strong experience working with internal and external partners and creating innovative approaches to sharing park stories that will serve him well,” NPS South Atlantic-Gulf Regional Director Mark Foust said. “We are excited to welcome Benjamin to the Southeast Region as the superintendent of Stones River National Battlefield.” 

“I'm honored to be chosen to serve as superintendent of Stones River National Battlefield,” Hayes said. “I am excited for the opportunity to work with the incredible Stones River team and build upon the great work that has been done towards preserving park resources, serving our visitors, and partnering for the future.”  For the past seven years, Hayes has served as the Interpretation and Education Program Manager at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. There, he led an award-winning team who created digital learning opportunities and formed new community-based education partnerships. Hayes previously served in supervisory positions at Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Alaska, the National Mall and Memorial Parks in Washington, D.C., and War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Guam. Hayes began his National Park Service career in 2006 as a volunteer then park ranger at Stones River National Battlefield while attending Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).

Hayes holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Kentucky and a Master of Arts degree in public history from MTSU. He enjoys learning about history, hiking, backpacking, and travel. A Tennessee native, Hayes grew up in Cookeville and looks forward to reconnecting with family and friends.  

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