Interview Spotlight
Georgia Ellard
“I enjoyed all of the Park, the trails, the lovely wild flowers, and the heavily forested areas.”
Georgia B. Ellard was born in 1929 in Pennsylvania, later moving to Washington, DC in 1952. Ellard began her career with the National Park Service (NPS) in November 1955 at Fort Dupont Park as a clerk-typist. Over the next few decades, Ellard would work a variety of roles, finally landing the position as superintendent of Rock Creek Park in 1983. She was not only the first woman superintendent of Rock Creek Park, but its first African American woman superintendent.
We had the opportunity to speak with her and learn more about her career in Rock Creek Park. Read our interview below to learn more.
Georgia Ellard, 1983.
Interview with Georgia
What is your favorite spot in Rock Creek Park, and why?
I enjoyed all of the Park, the trails, the lovely wild flowers, and the heavily forested areas. The historic Pierce Mill and the Nature Center. It afforded the opportunity to explore and enjoy the wonders of nature.
What is your proudest moment in your leadership roles for Rock Creek Park?
There were many proud moments however observing the enjoyment of park visitors participating in scheduled activities such as ranger led walks, and interpretation, provided a measure of the success of the park management.
What gave you the strength and motivation to take on the challenges of leading?
As in all responsible assignments, be prepared to meet the requirements and expectations of the position and address the situation with the support of management and team members.
What would you tell a new generation of park stewards about how to overcome the obstacles they'll face?
The desire to be a successful Park Manager representing the National Park Service and particular females in managerial positions.