Archive for category: Press Releases

You are here: / Press Releases /

Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 28th Landmark Luncheon Unveils Transformative Vision for the Park’s Future

/in /by

ATLANTA (April 24, 2025) – The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted its 28th Annual Landmark Luncheon today, gathering more than 500 supporters at The Promenade at Piedmont Park. Guests walked the signature green carpet as the event marked a historic moment for Atlanta’s most visited Park with The Big Reveal—the official unveiling of Piedmont Park’s first Comprehensive Plan in 25 years.

The Conservancy reached a major milestone, raising over $500,000 at this year’s annual luncheon—a new fundraising record. Proceeds will support the Conservancy’s mission to preserve, enhance and protect Piedmont Park by funding essential park maintenance, capital projects, community programs and environmental initiatives.

 

Designed by the renowned Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, the new Comprehensive Plan outlines a visionary path forward for the Park. Grounded in feedback from the Atlantan community, the plan includes a major expansion at Piedmont Avenue and Monroe Drive, a full restoration of Lake Clara Meer, a redesigned Active Oval and the new Clear Creek Walk—a nature-based corridor aimed at easing Beltline congestion and enhancing north-south connectivity.

“This year’s Landmark Luncheon was not just a celebration—it was a turning point,” said Doug Widener, president and CEO of Piedmont Park Conservancy. “The Comprehensive Plan is the most ambitious roadmap we’ve seen in decades, and thanks to our generous supporters, we are ready to begin the journey toward an even more vibrant, inclusive and sustainable Piedmont Park.”

Another noteworthy announcement at the Luncheon was the Conservancy’s new Seeds for the Future campaign—a multi-year initiative focused on the care and preservation of the Park’s iconic tree canopy. The campaign will involve a full inventory and health assessment of more than 3,000 mature trees, the planting of hundreds of new trees across the Park, the creation of an interactive educational app for visitors and a community-driven volunteer stewardship program.

 

The Landmark Luncheon served as the Seeds for the Future campaign’s first major fundraising event, signaling strong momentum for future sustainability efforts.

For more information on the Comprehensive Plan, the Seeds for the Future campaign or to support the Conservancy, visit plan.piedmontpark.org

###

 

About Piedmont Park Conservancy

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is the nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s iconic green space. Since 1989, the Conservancy has worked in partnership with the City of Atlanta to restore, maintain and improve the Park, ensuring it remains a vibrant, accessible and sustainable resource for residents and visitors. Through environmental stewardship, capital improvements and engaging community programs, the Conservancy enriches the Park experience for more than six million annual visitors.

The Conservancy contributes to the Park’s beautification and focuses on areas including the Active Oval, Aquatic Center, EnviroVentures Camp, Green Market, dog parks, tours, facility rentals and field trips. Additionally, the Conservancy consults on best management practices for Park events and festivals to protect Piedmont Park and ensure a positive experience for all. Raising over $5 million each year to better the Park for Atlantans, the Conservancy has raised over $110 million to date in private donations since its inception. Learn more at www.piedmontpark.org and follow the Conservancy on Facebook and Instagram.

 

 

 

Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 28th Landmark Luncheon Unveils Innovative Future Plans for Atlanta’s Iconic Park

/in , /by

ATLANTA – (March 11, 2025) – The Piedmont Park Conservancy announces the highly anticipated 28th Landmark Luncheon on April 24 at The Promenade at Piedmont Park. This year’s Landmark Luncheon will feature ‘The Big Reveal,’ unveiling Piedmont Park’s first Comprehensive Plan in 25 years. The visionary blueprint, shaped by feedback from thousands of Atlantans, will outline the Park’s future development, including schematic designs for Park enhancements and potential expansion. The community is invited to be among the first to see how local input will shape the next chapter of Atlanta’s beloved urban oasis.

The premier fundraising event is dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing Atlanta’s most visited park. Nearly 600 guests will gather to celebrate the future of Piedmont Park and support the Conservancy’s mission to maintain its legacy for generations to come.

“Landmark Luncheon is our largest annual fundraiser, and this year’s event will serve as a pivotal moment to share plans for the future of Piedmont Park,” said Piedmont Park Conservancy President and CEO Doug Widener. “The long-awaited unveiling of this plan will guide the Park’s evolution, ensuring its legacy as a destination for Atlantans and visitors worldwide.”

Funds raised from Landmark Luncheon directly support critical maintenance, capital improvements and innovative programming across the Park, furthering its vitality and accessibility for all visitors. The event contributes to an overall fundraising goal of $3 million, helping to preserve and enhance the Park. Key funding priorities include entrance upgrades, Lake Clara Meer improvements, nature play experience enhancements, Active Oval upgrades, expansion concepts and initiatives focused on Park connectivity, maintenance and beautification.

 

As part of its commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability, the Conservancy will also introduce the Seeds for the Future campaign, a multi-year initiative dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Park’s tree canopy. This transformative effort includes a comprehensive inventory and health assessment of over 3,000 mature trees, the planting of hundreds of new trees, the development of an interactive educational app and the creation of a community-driven volunteer stewardship program. To support this vital initiative, the Landmark Luncheon will serve as the campaign’s first major fundraising event, helping to ensure the health and longevity of Piedmont Park’s trees.

The Atlanta community is invited to support the Conservancy, celebrate this milestone and invest in the future of Atlanta’s beating green heart. Sponsorship and ticket opportunities are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit piedmontpark.org and connect with Piedmont Park Conservancy on Facebook and Instagram.

###

About Piedmont Park Conservancy

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is the nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s iconic green space. Since 1989, the Conservancy has worked in partnership with the City of Atlanta to restore, maintain and improve the Park, ensuring it remains a vibrant, accessible and sustainable resource for residents and visitors. Through environmental stewardship, capital improvements and engaging community programs, the Conservancy enriches the Park experience for more than six million annual visitors.

The Conservancy contributes to the Park’s beautification and focuses on areas including the Active Oval, Aquatic Center, EnviroVentures Camp, Green Market, dog parks, tours, facility rentals and field trips. Additionally, the Conservancy consults on best management practices for Park events and festivals to protect Piedmont Park and ensure a positive experience for all. Raising over $5 million each year to better the Park for Atlantans, the Conservancy has raised over $110 million to date in private donations since its inception. Learn more at www.piedmontpark.org and follow the Conservancy on Facebook and Instagram.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Marks Milestone 35th Anniversary

/in /by

 

 

ATLANTA, GA (March 24, 2024) – In 1989, a small group of citizens and civic leaders joined together with the City of Atlanta to form the Piedmont Park Conservancy (PPC). This band of conservationists would have a profound and lasting impact on the growth and health of Piedmont Park, solidifying it as one of Atlanta’s most iconic destinations. Now, in honor of more than three decades in partnership with the City of Atlanta as the Park’s primary steward, the nonprofit announces the launch of the Piedmont Park Conservancy 35th Anniversary Appeal. The appeal, in keeping with PPC’s mission of preserving and enhancing Piedmont Park for all, will be dedicated to celebrating the Conservancy’s past, recommitting to its present and envisioning the Park’s future for generations to come. With a goal of raising $3.5 million, the campaign will kickstart a comprehensive master planning effort to add new acreage and green space to Piedmont Park, reimagine its 200+ acres, and undertake over $2.5 million in Park improvements and enhancements. While furthering the preservation of the “City’s Beating Green Heart,” the Conservancy has also announced a lineup of celebratory events slated for 2024 to commemorate the milestone.

 

The cornerstone of the campaign is the comprehensive master planning process, allocating funds for studies to acquire additional acreage, enhance green spaces and undertake vital improvements to the Park. Leveraging input from neighboring residents and civic groups throughout the spring and summer, PPC will begin drafting the master plan later this year to guide maintenance protocol and capital projects for the next decade and beyond. Enhancements to the Park’s infrastructure will include lighting the Active Oval, updates and landscape beautification to the Charles Allen and Park Drive gates, as well as the Park Tavern, 12th Street, 10th Street and 14th Street entrances. Additional improvements will include park-wide railing repair; legacy fountain restoration; lighting enhancements; erosion control measures; path repaving; swimming pool resurfacing and sunshade replacement; splash pad updates; and the creation of a donor recognition feature. A portion of funds will be dedicated to kickstart the master planning process, including studies for park expansion and land acquisition, as well as an endowment of $350k to provide a reserve for the Conservancy as it shepherds the Park into its 35th year and beyond.

 

Under the leadership of the Conservancy’s Board of Directors and PPC’s President and CEO Doug Widener, efforts are underway to extend the Park’s boundaries to Monroe Drive and Piedmont Avenue. This expansion coincides with the development of the Beltline’s Northeast Trail alongside the Park and the planned expansion of the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

 

“As we celebrate Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 35th anniversary, it’s evident that the Park is more than just an oasis in our city; it’s the beating green heart of Atlanta,” explains Piedmont Park Conservancy President and CEO Doug Widener. “Investing in the future of Piedmont Park honors its legacy, while pledging resources and a continued commitment to its vitality. The Conservancy’s 35th Anniversary Appeal presents an opportunity for Atlantans to come together to help preserve one of our most cherished cultural assets, ensuring this historic greenspace for generations to come.”

 

To kick off the year-long celebration, PPC will host its largest annual fundraiser, the Landmark Luncheon, on Thursday, April 25 from 11 a.m. t0 1 p.m. at the Promenade at Piedmont Park. This event plays a pivotal role in fundraising to support the Park’s daily operations, as the Conservancy relies heavily on donations for upkeep, beautification and programming. With more than $5 million in donations needed annually for Park management and enhancement, fundraising events like the Landmark Luncheon are imperative to furthering the Conservancy’s mission of preserving and protecting the iconic greenspace. Tickets are on sale now at www.Piedmontpark.org.

 

PPC will also host an additional fundraising event, “Party for Piedmont Park,” on Thursday, September 26, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., inviting the public to “Party like it’s 1989” in honor of the Conservancy’s founding year and to celebrate the Park’s 120th birthday. Proceeds from this ticketed event will be earmarked for the daily management of the Park and its programs. While Piedmont Park is known for hosting iconic events such as The Dogwood Festival, Music Midtown and Atlanta Pride, the Conservancy does not receive funding from the many festivals held in the Park, underscoring the importance of such fundraising events and campaigns such as the 35th Anniversary Appeal, the Landmark Luncheon and Party for Piedmont Park.

 

###

 

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. To date, the Conservancy has raised over $110 million in private donations since its inception to better the park for all Atlantans.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Names Doug Widener Chief Executive Officer

/in /by

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.

###

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
[email protected]

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

/in /by

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.

###

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: [email protected]
P: (404) 875-7275, ext. 223

 

PIEDMONT PARK CONSERVANCY CEO MARK BANTA ANNOUNCES INTENT TO RETIRE IN 2023

/in /by

Piedmont Park Conservancy announced Thursday that the nonprofit organization’s Chief Executive Officer, Mark Banta, will be retiring in 2023, upon the selection of and transition to his successor. Mark has served as CEO for eight years after a long career in operations at nationally recognized parks and greenspaces, including 16 years as the general manager of Centennial Olympic Park from 1996 to 2012.

“The Piedmont Park Conservancy continues to be very grateful for Mark’s leadership,” Ellen Sacchi, the Conservancy’s Board Chair said. “Mark has made a notable impact during his time of service, and I know we will all continue to see the significance of his work at Piedmont Park for years to come.”

“Leading the Piedmont Park Conservancy has truly been the highlight of my professional career. I’m honored to have led the amazing team here at PPC who are ready to take on the next opportunities and challenges and I look forward to helping the board position the next CEO for success,” said Mark Banta.

Mark joined the Conservancy staff as Chief Operating Officer in 2014 and was promoted shortly thereafter to CEO. Under his leadership, the Conservancy’s annual budget increased to over $4.5 million, an operating reserve was established that enabled the organization to weather the pandemic successfully and the Park’s visitation grew to about six million annual visitors.

The Board of Directors will oversee the process to choose Mark’s successor and has selected BoardWalk Consulting to conduct a national search for a new CEO. After his successor is in place and a transition period in early 2023, Mark will serve in a consulting role to the new CEO.

To learn more about Piedmont Park Conservancy, click here.

###

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $4 million annually 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: [email protected]
P: (404) 875-7275, ext. 223

 

Piedmont Park Conservancy Raises Over $400,000 at Landmark Luncheon’s 25th Anniversary

/in /by

Returning to pre-pandemic levels, 475 Atlantans supported Landmark Luncheon on Thursday, April 28 which raised approximately $400,000 for Piedmont Park Conservancy. Piedmont Park attracts almost 6 million visitors and the Conservancy is responsible for 95% of daily operations. With a renewed appreciation for greenspace, events like Landmark Luncheon are critical to sustaining the funds needed to keep Piedmont Park clean, green and active all year long. 

Norfolk Southern CEO James (Jim) Squires and Karen Jones Squires chaired this year’s Landmark Luncheon, and recently gave a transformational unrestricted gift to the Conservancy. The collective impact of the luncheon raising $400,000 in addition to the Squires’ personal gift makes this year’s Landmark Luncheon the most successful fundraiser in Piedmont Park Conservancy’s history. Norfolk Southern was this year’s Presenting Sponsor.

Northside Hospital was honored with the Green Giant Award for their ongoing partnership with Piedmont Park Conservancy and for their community impact as healthcare workers during the peak of the pandemic. The Green Giant Award was sponsored by Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. Also, John Izard, Jr. was presented with the Legacy Award for his influence on Piedmont Park including the 53-acre expansion and past Board leadership. The Legacy Award was sponsored by Delta.

Other generous support includes Anniversary Sponsors Coca-Cola Company and Cox Enterprises. The event was hosted by Channel 2’s Justin Farmer.

To learn more about Piedmont Park Conservancy, click here.

###

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually 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: [email protected]
P: (404) 875-7275, ext. 223

Landmark Luncheon

Piedmont Park Conservancy Guests of Landmark Luncheon

Piedmont Park Conservancy Landmark Luncheon Event Chairs Karen Jones Squires and Jim Squires with their daughter Maggie Squires (Left to right)

Piedmont Park Conservancy Landmark Luncheon Event Chairs Karen Jones Squires and Jim Squires with their daughter Maggie Squires (Left to right)

Northside Hospital Receives the 2022 Green Giant Award from Piedmont Park Conservancy. Pictured: Northside Hospital Director of Emergency Services Chris Munn and Piedmont Park Conservancy Board Chair Ellen Sacchi.

Northside Hospital Receives the 2022 Green Giant Award from Piedmont Park Conservancy. Pictured: Northside Hospital Director of Emergency Services Chris Munn and Piedmont Park Conservancy Board Chair Ellen Sacchi.

John Izard, Jr. Receives the 2022 Legacy Award from Piedmont Park Conservancy. Pictured: John Izard, Jr. and Piedmont Park Conservancy President & CEO Mark Banta.

John Izard, Jr. Receives the 2022 Legacy Award from Piedmont Park Conservancy. Pictured: John Izard, Jr. and Piedmont Park Conservancy President & CEO Mark Banta.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Board Member Tony Hilliard Speaks to Landmark Luncheon Attendees About the Importance of Piedmont Park and the Conservancy.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Board Member Tony Hilliard Speaks to Landmark Luncheon Attendees About the Importance of Piedmont Park and the Conservancy.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Landmark Luncheon Event Committee: (Left to right) Donna Barwick, Sheryl Meddin, Jan Harralson, Mark Banta, Wick Garrard, Holly B. Stevens

Piedmont Park Conservancy Landmark Luncheon Event Committee: (Left to right) Donna Barwick, Sheryl Meddin, Jan Harralson, Mark Banta, Wick Garrard, Holly B. Stevens

Piedmont Park’s Green Market Now Accepts EBT

/in /by

We are excited to announce the return of Green Market to Piedmont Park on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm. Green Market encourages sustainable communities in the most basic way – by providing shoppers with direct access to local farmers and small businesses. Enjoy seasonal produce, prepared foods, baked goods, bath and body products, locally made dog food and treats, and more.

New this year – Green Market now accepts EBT! Piedmont Park Conservancy is partnering with Wholesome Wave Georgia to offer Georgia Fresh For Less – a program that doubles these benefits for market fresh fruits and vegetables! How does it work? Bring your EBT Card to the Green Market. Swipe your card for the amount you choose and we’ll match your EBT dollars, dollar-for-dollar, with free tokens for fruits and vegetables.

Come walk the market and enjoy the fun every Saturday from March through December.

WHAT: Green Market Opening Day and Announcing New EBT Program

WHO: Vendors are available for interviews, as well as the Green Market Manager Matthew Bagshaw and the Director of Communications Amy Han Risher. Topics can include the market itself, importance of farmers market, how the market enhances Piedmont Park and/or the details about the new EBT program. If you plan on attending, call or text Amy 912-690-7109 to facilitate.

WHEN: Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 9 am – 1pm.

WHERE: Piedmont Park – 12th Street and Piedmont Avenue Gate.

DETAILS: Green Market Webpage

###

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Piedmont Park Conservancy Welcomes 2022 New Board Members

/in /by

The Piedmont Park Conservancy welcomes four new members to their board of directors: Louisa Basarrate, Chris Buettner of Cox Enterprises, Allen Roberson of Sage and James A. Squires of Norfolk Southern Corporation.

The Conservancy looks forward to working with these new board members to keep Piedmont Park thriving for the Atlanta community.

Biographies:

Louisa Basarrate

After a 20+ year career in non-profit development, marketing and management, followed by time as a stay-at-home mom, Louisa Basarrate currently volunteers and enjoys living in both Atlanta and San Francisco. She is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. Louisa is married to Armando Basarrate and the mother of Sophie Basarrate (23).

Louisa achieved designation as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) for accomplishments in professional practice, education and community service. Her previous organizations included Atlanta Speech School, Shepherd Center, Jerusalem House, AID Atlanta and SunTrust Bank.

She is engaged in her local communities including cultural organizations such as: Open Hand Atlanta, San Francisco Ballet, High Museum, Metropolitan Museum, DeYoung/Legion of Honor, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Atlanta Ballet.

Chris Buettner

After a career on the digital agency side that spanned 20+ years, Chris Buettner now leads the Marketing and Brand team at Cox Enterprises, working on a broad range of initiatives from employment brand efforts to attract top talent to the company’s diverse family of brands to marketing strategy for new business focus areas like Cox Cleantech.

In his current role, he is also helping to bring Cox’s social impact vision to life of positively impacting 34 million lives by 2034, an initiative that allows him to combine many of his personal passions in areas such as education and environmental stewardship.

Prior to Cox, he led an international network of top digital marketing agencies focused on the future of marketing and digital experiences, expanding the international reach of the organization from 15 to 42 countries in five years. Chris lives in Decatur with his wife and two daughters – both of whom are proud alums of the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s summer camps.

Allen Roberson

Allen Roberson recently joined Sage as the Finance Director in November of 2021. Prior to Sage, Allen worked at International Hotel Group (IHG) for 15 years where he served as Head of Finance & Business Partnering; Commercial & Technology Products and Platforms. Allen also worked with IBM as a Corporate Internal Auditor and Sales & Distribution Financial Analyst.

Mr. Roberson possesses demonstrated passion for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) through Community Partnership Committee leadership with the Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) and active member of the Out & Open LGBTQ+ ERG. He implemented blind resume reviews and diverse interview panels into the function’s recruiting process to improve the diversity of candidate interview slates.

Mr. Roberson currently serves as a valued member of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Finance Committee.

James A. Squires

Jim Squires is chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), a FORTUNE 500 transportation company whose railroad operates across 19,500 miles in 22 states, connecting businesses and communities to the marketplaces of the world.

Jim joined Norfolk Southern’s Law Department in 1992 and has held roles of increasing responsibility. They include vice president law; senior vice president law; senior vice president financial planning; executive vice president finance and chief financial officer; and executive vice president administration. Jim became president of the company in 2013 and was named chairman and CEO in 2015.

A native of Hollis, New Hampshire, Jim is a 1983 graduate of Amherst College and was an Amherst-Doshisha Fellow at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan. He earned his J.D. degree from the University of Chicago Law School, where he has served as a member of the Visiting Committee. He is a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

Currently serving as chair of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, Jim also has served as chair of the Association of American Railroads, as a board member of the board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as a trustee of the Sentara Healthcare System, and as chairman of Virginia’s Transportation Accountability Commission.

###

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks

/in /by

On October 2 and 3, dogs and their owners filled the Piedmont Park Pool during the return of the 12th annual Splish Splash Doggie Bash. The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted this special fundraiser that directly supports the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks. A great time was had by all as local dog owners and dog lovers gathered together for a weekend of fun to kick off the Fall season!

This event took place at the end of pool season, allowing the dogs to run free and let out all their energy in the Piedmont Park Pool. This made for some amusing photo opportunities and adorable moments between many different kinds of pups! Canine owners also had a great time as they were allowed to take their pets off-leash and witness the doggy party.

Various vendors added to the excitement by giving away free treats, toys and merchandise for participants. Park visitors observed from outside the pool and many took advantage of the walk-up registration. Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021 was a huge success, registering over 660 dogs and raising over $20,000 for the Piedmont Park Dog Parks.

###

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

 

Dogs were spoiled with pool toys and tennis balls during Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021.

Owners created some lasting memories with pets, while supporting the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks. 

Over 650 dogs of all shapes and sizes were free to play off-leash over a fun-filled weekend.

Soccer fields are closed for maintenance. Learn More