Hello everyone, please allow me to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Lewis and Clark National Park Association. My name is Kari Wilson, and I could not be more excited to be here for all of you, and of course our wonderful Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.
I wanted to start by saying, if you do not already know, that we are open again! We all would love to see you down here in the bookstore, learning in the wonderful visitor center, hiking on the beautiful trails, and interacting with the dedicated park rangers and employees here at Lewis and Clark NHP.
Thank you all, as Association Members, your support has been crucial in keeping things “moving along” even during the past Government shutdown. By renewing your membership, or by becoming a new Association Member, your continued support will only help us with maintaining our mission to assist with the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park’s education programs.
Now a little about myself. I grew up in Astoria, Oregon. Naturally I remember coming on the field trips to Fort Clatsop which sparked an immense love for history and a respect for interactive learning. The smell of the tallow candles and animal furs, the sound of the rain, and the sight of the beautiful, wooded landscape brings me back to all of that, and I feel renewed and so refreshed being here. I served in the US Navy, and that took me away from the beautiful Pacific Northwest. After traveling to many different reaches of the world during that time, I can still say that my home is one of the most beautiful and interesting places I have ever been. I am honored to be back. It is easy to believe that so many of you can relate to some of the reasons why I think this place is so wonderful, and that is why you are here reading this.
I look forward to serving you as the new Executive Director of the Lewis and Clark National Park Association.