The Roger Williams Park Conservancy (RWPC) is pleased to announce that Melissa Carden has assumed the role of executive director, following former Executive Director Bonnie Nickerson’s leadership over the past two years. Nickerson oversaw the creation of a 5-year strategic plan and expanded programming and community engagement in the Park. Carden is a marketing strategist and community leader, and she’s no stranger to the Park or RWPC’s impact, having served on the board of the Conservancy for the past three years.
Backed with years of working in the nonprofit space and proven expertise in communications, fundraising, relationship building, and policy, Carden is poised to carry on the Conservancy’s mission of stewarding for the long-term sustainability of Roger Williams Park and its enjoyment by the community, expanding on efforts to activate “Providence’s Backyard.”
“I have enjoyed the Park with my family for generations, and I am looking forward to building on the board’s and Bonnie’s work to bring the beauty of the park to even more partners, neighbors, Rhode Islanders, and out-of-state visitors,” says Carden. “We are so lucky to have this gem that brings people together to appreciate nature and build community.”
Melissa Carden most recently served as the executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition Against Gun Violence. Prior to that, she was the Chief Public Affairs Officer for the State of Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency, and she has held various corporate marketing communications positions with Swarovski, Textron, and the Capital Grille. She lives in the Park neighborhood in Cranston with her husband and two teenaged sons.
“The Board is filled with enthusiasm and excitement to welcome Melissa Carden as the new Executive Director,” relays Joe Pari, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We have faith that her vision and dedication will continue to increase the Conservancy’s impact, deepen crucial community partnerships and the Park’s Department, and guide us toward an even brighter future for Roger Williams Park.”
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