Roger Williams Park Conservancy names Megan E. Fischer inaugural executive director

The Roger Williams Park Conservancy has announced Megan E. Fischer as its first-ever executive director.

Fischer will be responsible for leading the Conservancy to achieve its mission and strategic goals. She will foster Board development, create and manage a strategic plan, develop appropriate programming, and implement a financial sustainability plan for the Conservancy.

Previously, Fischer held a number of roles at Providence Children’s Museum, including serving as interim executive director from 2014 to 2016. Most recently, she served as development manager for the Providence Children’s Film Festival.

Fischer served on the Board of Directors of the Partnership for Providence Parks and Everett: Company, Stage, and School, served as a founding committee member of Providence PlayCorps, and was an inaugural participant in the Rhode Island Foundation Nonprofit Emerging Leaders Program. She volunteers with Farm Fresh Rhode Island and is participating in the University of Rhode Island’s 2018 Master Gardener Program.

A Rumford resident, Fischer earned a BA in sociology and culture and social issues from the University of Georgia and an MA in public humanities with a concentration in museum studies from Brown University. She received a certificate in nonprofit management and leadership from Tufts University Institute for Nonprofit Management and Leadership.

Fischer joins the Conservancy as it builds on a signature fundraising effort led by the Rhode Island Foundation, as part of its 2016 centennial commemoration. Nearly $9 million has been raised to fund capital projects throughout the Park – including renovations to the Temple to Music and Betsey Williams Cottage, a new marked trail system, and wayfinding signage – and for an endowment for the Conservancy.

Roger Williams Park was created in 1871 after Betsey Williams, granddaughter of Rhode Island founder Roger Williams, bequeathed 102 acres of farmland and woodland to the city of Providence. Originally designed to serve as an escape for workers, it has grown to become “the People’s Park” where visitors from near and far enjoy and explore the outdoors. The Roger Williams Park Conservancy stewards the Park, offer community programs, raise resources, coordinate marketing efforts, and plan for the long-term sustainability of the Park and its enjoyment by the community.