Kristina Ramsey, who recently stepped down as Buena Vista’s economic development director, has begun her new job as director of engagement and external affairs for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
“I’m looking forward to building relationships, meeting the people who care so deeply about this place, hearing their stories, and working together to ensure the national park and the communities it connects continue to thrive for generations,” said Ramsey.
A Buena Vista native who graduated from Parry McCluer High School in 2015, Ramsey is, according to a press release, “leading outreach and collaboration efforts in Virginia for the non-profit foundation to build relationships with community leaders, elected officials, partners, donors and supporters while expanding awareness of the organization’s mission and impact.”
She joins the Foundation after nearly a decade with the city of Buena Vista leading economic development and communications efforts. She also served as chair of Rockbridge Outdoors, helping bring communities together around outdoor recreation and regional collaboration. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with additional education in psychology, marketing and communications.
The Foundation also announced that Kimberly Petersen has been hired to be project coordinator for its Blue Ridge Rising program. A resident of Bedford, Peterson is helping “shape and advance innovative strategies that connect Parkway visitors with neighboring communities, expand economic opportunities, support local businesses and foster sustainable growth in the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors.”
Carolyn Widner, Foundation CEO, said she is “thrilled to welcome” both Ramsey and Petersen “as we create even deeper connections with the parkway’s neighboring communities and leaders.”
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is the nonprofit fundraising partner of the Blue Ridge Parkway, helping to ensure cultural and historical preservation, natural resource protection, educational outreach, and visitor enjoyment now and for future generations. Since 1997, the Foundation has provided more than $24 million in support for the country’s most visited national park unit. To learn more, visit BRPFoundation.org.
