Joy Absher selected as Chief of Visitor Experience and Education of Acadia National Park. (NPS Photo)

BAR HARBOR, MAINE – Acadia National Park Superintendent Kevin Schneider announced the selection of Joy Absher as Chief of Visitor Experience and Education of Acadia National Park. Absher is currently the Visitor Services Manager for Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“Joy’s wide range of experiences and deep understanding of how to engage with visitors, youth, and community members will serve her well as she makes her transition to Acadia,” says Superintendent Kevin Schneider. “We cannot wait for her to arrive at the park and become part of our team.”

The Chief of Visitor Experience and Education at Acadia National Park works with staff and partners to oversee Acadia’s visitor center operations; digital and interpretive media such as the park website, social media accounts, exhibits, signs, and waysides; education programs such as the Schoodic Education Adventure; and ranger-led walks and talks.

Joy’s career in federal service started as a seasonal Interpretation Park Ranger for the Blue Ridge Parkway, leading campground programs, junior ranger programs, and providing information at a visitor center. A few years later she accepted a permanent position with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Resource Education division. During her time in the Smokies she served as acting Education Branch Chief and assisted in concession management. She enhanced her experience in leading staff with interpretive planning and program delivery while working at Steamtown National Historic Site as the Program Manager for Visitor Services and Resource Management.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to work at Acadia National Park,” says Absher. “I look forward to working with park staff, partners, and our neighboring communities as we work together to protect this amazing resource and promote our future park stewards.”

As a leader Joy finds purpose in engaging with others by active listening and a sharing of empathy, allowing for a personal transformation through new perspectives.