Archive for year: 2023

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Piedmont Park Conservancy Names Doug Widener Chief Executive Officer

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy Board of Directors has appointed Doug Widener as the nonprofit’s new Chief Executive Officer. As the Executive Director of the Lincoln Park Conservancy (LPC) in Chicago, Widener’s nearly three decades of experience across nonprofit leadership, community building and sustainable practices will further the Conservancy’s vital mission of ensuring park access for all across metro-Atlanta.

The Piedmont Park Conservancy began an extensive national search in 2022 across more than 20 states following the retirement announcement of former Piedmont Park Conservancy CEO Mark Banta last July. Banta served in the position for nine years and will transition leadership to Widener this fall. In addition to his transformative work to revitalize an iconic Chicago landmark, Widener has also left a lasting impact on the field of sustainability through his leadership roles at the U.S. Green Building Council, where he advocated for environmentally conscious practices in various state, regional and national positions. Widener hopes to expand upon his dedication to nurturing a deeper appreciation of the natural environment – a passion born from his background in educational programming at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum as well as time spent as co-chairman of education and communication at the Chicago Wilderness Alliance.

“I’m thrilled to join the Piedmont Park Conservancy. I believe that parks and open spaces are vital to help us connect with each other, disconnect from the hustle of urban life and recharge our bodies and our beings,” explained Widener. “The Piedmont Park Conservancy plays a vital role in stewarding this wonderful resource for all Atlantans. I look forward to working with our great Board, donors, partners, staff and community in charting a vision for the Park as a world- class destination…for now and generations to come.

“We are at an exciting juncture in our partnership with the City of Atlanta. Doug’s joy for his work, combined with his talent for connecting and collaborating strategically with others, inspires our confidence in his ability to continue leading our beloved Piedmont Park into a promising future,” says Ellen Sacchi, Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Board Chair. “His leadership and commitment to community engagement make him a perfect fit to drive our organizations mission forward.”

In partnership with BoardWalk Consulting, a national firm based in Atlanta, the Piedmont Park Conservancy Board Search Committee conducted a national search for a new Chief Executive Officer. Widener’s arrival ensures a future of enduring strength for the Conservancy.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $5 million each year to enhance and maintain the park.

 

For More Information:
Sara Barksdale
BRAVE Public Relations
404.213.8346
sbarksdale@emailbrave.com

5 Things to Consider Before Booking Your Venue at Piedmont Park

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Whether you are hosting a corporate event or planning your wedding, figuring out which event space to book is an important and exciting decision. 

Here are five key things to consider before booking a venue at Piedmont Park: 

Cost: The cost of renting an event space is a critical factor to consider. You need to ensure that the price is within your budget. At Piedmont Park, we have four different locations varying in price points. 

Capacity: The next thing you should consider when booking an event space is the capacity. You need to have a rough idea of the number of guests you expect and ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate that number of people. Ensure the space is manageable for the expected attendees. 

Date: Piedmont Park is beautiful year-round. With our breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline and surrounding landscapes, this urban park offers a serene and picturesque setting for any events, indoor or outdoor. 

What’s Included: Piedmont Park venues include tables and chairs. We offer several preferred catering partners that deliver exceptional food and service. We also have a list of suggested vendors that make everything from event planning to equipment rentals easy to plan for a successful event. Before booking, check what amenities are included in the venue you are interested in. 

Location: A clear idea of your event needs will help you narrow your venue options and find the perfect space. Piedmont Park offers a variety of event spaces ranging from small intimate settings to large open spaces. With four exclusive venues to choose from, your guest will enjoy the beautiful and historical park setting placed among the cityscape of Atlanta. 

By considering these five key factors, you can ensure that the event space you choose will be perfect for your needs and help make your day memorable and special. We look forward to hosting your next event!

Piedmont Park Conservancy and Atlanta City Council honor CEO Mark Banta at This Year’s Landmark Luncheon

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On Thursday, April 27, almost 500 people were on hand as Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted its annual Landmark Luncheon, honoring Mark Banta, its retiring Chief Executive Officer, with the Legacy Award sponsored by Delta Air Lines. This signature fundraising event is critical to sustaining the funds needed to keep Piedmont Park clean, green, and active all year long.

Banta was recognized for his years of leadership and impact on the Conservancy over the past decade.  He also received a proclamation from the Atlanta City Council in honor of his career, tirelessly working on behalf of the greenspace community.

The City of Atlanta’s Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner, Justin Cutler, joined the Landmark Luncheon as its special guest speaker. Cutler spoke about the goals of the Department of Parks and Recreation, importance of the Conservancy and how Piedmont Park is a great example of a Park for all.

The Conservancy also announced an inclusive playground it is working to fund upon Banta’s retirement later this year.

“By creating a space where all kids can play together, regardless of their abilities, we promote understanding, respect, and empathy among children and the wider community,” said Mark Banta.

The reception was sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, Cox Enterprises, and The Home Depot Foundation. The event was hosted by Channel 2’s Lori Wilson.

Donate to the Inclusive Playground Fund Here.

To learn more about Piedmont Park Conservancy, visit piedmontpark.org.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $5 million each year to enhance and maintain the park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Contact: Courtney Bugler
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: cbugler@piedmontpark.org
P: (404) 875-7275, ext. 223