The Shenandoah National Park Trust welcomes Jessica Cocciolone as their new Executive Director.

Jessica has spent the past 15 years helping nonprofits across the United States raise millions of dollars and create sustainable organizations. She has previously worked as the Chief Development Officer for Elk Hill in Goochland, VA.

“It is an honor and a welcome challenge to help ensure SNP’s preservation and enhancement for generations to come,” Cocciolone said. “All of my life, I have had an abiding love for wild spaces and our treasured national parks. They are a true gift that must be protected and cherished in perpetuity for all.”

She has also held leadership positions at High Achievement in Richmond, VA; JDRF in Albuquerque, NM; Alabama CASA in Birmingham, AL; and has served as an Adjunct Professor with the University of Richmond, Institute of Philanthropy.

She has been actively involved in the Central VA Chapter, Association of Fundraising Professionals, where she currently serves on the Board of Directors, and is Chair of The Diversity and Inclusive Fellows Program.

Her passion for environmental advocacy, coupled with her background in fundraising, youth education and social services, makes her a strong leader in protecting public lands and forging new partnerships for our national park.

“Nothing else in our modern America so wonderfully mixes unparalleled beauty, accessibility, and affordability,” she said. “In particular, Shenandoah National Park, situated so closely to major east coast populations, is the perfect antidote to the ennui of our increasingly harried lives.”

Jessica can often be found with her daughter rock climbing around Virginia or hiking in Shenandoah.