FOLAR Welcomes New Executive Director

- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -

Contact: Jacquelyn Vari FOLAR Communications & Marketing Manager jvari@folar-va.org or contactus@folar-va.org

FOLAR WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Petersburg, Virginia — Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR), the only organization in the Tri-Cities and surrounding counties dedicated to conserving and protecting the natural, cultural, and recreational resources along the lower Appomattox River, is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Jackson Christopher Bartlett as its new Executive Director.

Jackson brings nearly two decades of experience in nonprofits, fundraising, and leadership to FOLAR, along with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, education, and community engagement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jackson as the next Executive Director of FOLAR” said Dr. Christian Volk, FOLAR Board Chair. “He brings a wealth of experience, a collaborative spirit, and a bold vision that aligns perfectly with our mission at a time when environmental leadership is more important than ever.”

Dr. Bartlett is an accomplished researcher, teacher, and community leader whose work on neighborhood change, urban development, and building successful organizations has prepared him for this role. Prior to joining FOLAR, Dr. Bartlett served as Director of Inclusive Education at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he led professional development in diversity, equity, and inclusion for more than 60,000 students, faculty, and staff across VCU and VCU Health. Other past experience includes his time as faculty at Northwestern University and Ball State University, and work with the Council on Michigan Foundations, the Bloomington Urban Forestry Research Project, and numerous community development organizations across the US. Jackson holds a Ph.D. in African American Studies from Northwestern University.

He comes to FOLAR with a deep commitment to hands-on, community driven work that is authentic, sustainable, and equitable across our diverse stakeholder communities. Jackson is a Petersburg resident where he has enjoyed volunteering with FOLAR and running on the trails.

“I’m honored to join FOLAR and lead this exceptional team,” said Dr. Bartlett. “Together, we will continue its legacy of outstanding work conserving and protecting the Appomattox River, expanding community access to the Appomattox River Trail & Park system, and ensuring a healthier, more equitable blueway-greenway corridor for future generations.”

As FOLAR’s Executive Director, Jackson will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, operations, programs, partnerships, and community outreach, guiding FOLAR into a new era of environmental leadership and impact.

Jackson succeeds Wendy Austin, who has served as Executive Director since 2015. Under Wendy’s leadership, FOLAR significantly expanded its impact, building strong partnerships with local governments and stakeholders to maximize resources for the conservation and enhancement of the Appomattox River and the community.

Leading FOLAR has been an incredibly fulfilling journey, and I am immensely proud of the progress we have made together with our dedicated team and community. As I step aside, I am excited and confident that Jackson’s passion, expertise, and vision make him the ideal leader to guide FOLAR into its next chapter." said Wendy.

Correspondingly, Heather Barrar, who has served as FOLAR Regional Trails Program Director alongside Wendy since 2018 and has been integral to the team’s achievements, will expand her role leading regional collaborative active transportation and environmental initiatives.

As we embark on this new chapter for FOLAR, we are confident that Dr. Bartlett's leadership will bring great things to our organization. We ask for your support in welcoming him to this new role and in continuing to work together to achieve our mission.

SUPPORT FOLAR’S MISSION
As we welcome the future, the FOLAR team is deeply grateful to its partners, sponsors, and members who continue to support the organization through this leadership transition. You can help FOLAR continue its work to conserve, protect, and promote the Appomattox River by making a donation today. Your contribution ensures that FOLAR can maintain essential community programs and move forward with key active transportation and conservation projects.

How to Support FOLAR and our Mission:

• • Donate securely online: www.folar-va.org/donate
• •Mail a check to: Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR)
• • Show your support on social media! Congratulate Jackson and share your messages of encouragement on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Together, we can build a stronger, more accessible Appomattox River for everyone to enjoy.

Friends of the Lower Appomattox River
Appomattox River Center
235 N Market St Petersburg, VA 23803

--- ABOUT THE FRIENDS OF THE LOWER APPOMATTOX RIVER (FOLAR) FOLAR is the only nonprofit organization within the region that exists to serve the community need for the protection and preservation of natural resources as well as the need for recreational and enrichment opportunities along the lower Appomattox River. The lower Appomattox River flows on a continuous route connecting nature and culture through six jurisdictions from Lake Chesdin, in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie Counties, through Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Prince George County to the Appomattox River’s confluence with the James River at historic City Point, Hopewell. We are committed to creating a welcoming place and to encourage everyone to actively connect, learn, share, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy river environment.