River Parkway Trust selects Sharon Weaver as new Executive Director 
FRESNO, CA - The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust's Board of Directors is pleased to announce that they have selected Sharon Weaver as the organization's new executive director. She is succeeding Dave Koehler who is stepping down following 25 years in his post. Weaver began working for the River Parkway Trust in 1999 and quickly rose to the position of Deputy Director in 2008, overseeing implementation of the Trust's major projects and program services. 

"Sharon stood out as the clear choice to lead our organization, her experience is a huge asset as we move ahead on completing the Parkway. We look forward to her building on our past successes and bringing new ideas and programs to our community," said George Folsom, President of the board of directors.

Folsom chaired the Trust's search committee and noted that Weaver was selected among a pool of candidates from across the country that applied for the position. 

Throughout her career with the Trust, Weaver has managed high profile projects such as building sections of the Lewis S. Eaton Trail, developing river access and habitat enhancement at Jensen River Ranch and Sycamore Island, overseeing operations of the Coke Hallowell Center for River Studies, and connecting youth to the river through programs such as River Camp and guided river tours. She has leveraged private contributions through her strong grant writing skills and has a track record of collaboration, providing programs that serve the community across all economic and cultural sectors. 

"I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and continuing the important work of the Trust," said Weaver. "The San Joaquin River Parkway is one of the most important amenities in the Fresno-Madera region. I look forward to working with our partners in the community to create more trails, parks, and wildlife areas for future generations."

Sharon Weaver is a native of Fresno and is a graduate of the University of California at Davis with a degree in political science. She begins the Executive Director position on April 3; until then, Dave Koehler continues to serve in that role.