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The Parklands

Staff Spotlight: Sam Stewart

What is your role?

I oversee our communications department as well plan and execute fundraising events for The Parklands. These events are crucial for funding The Parklands yearly budget, especially since we rely on donations and not tax dollars.

How does your team help keep The Parklands fun?

Supporting The Parklands and having fun go hand-in-hand. The events my team and I host showcase our fantastic parks and show donors the concrete difference their contributions make for The Parklands.

What are you most proud of in your work?

Developing relationships with existing and new donors is a big part of my job. I enjoy telling The Parklands story to new visitors and inspiring them to become a supporter.

Guests of the Field & Fork fundraiser enjoy the Afterglow. Photo by Ted Wathen/Quadrant

What inspires you to come to work every day?

The Parklands is making a huge impact on the city of Louisville, and I have been given the opportunity to help shape the development goals in present day to give The Parklands a solid foundation for the future.

Which trail would you recommend to visitors and why?

I see hiking as an opportunity to exercise and enjoy nature, plus get in a little quiet time. The Valley of the Giants trail in Beckley Creek Park isn’t too crowded, and you can always spot something new in the Fork.

Louisville Loop in Turkey Run Park. Photo by Ted Wathen/Quadrant

Which “thing to do” at The Parklands is your favorite and why?

My favorite thing to do in the park is to cycle.  It is such a great place to ride a bike on a paved, safe path right in Louisville but feel like you are so far away!

In your opinion, what makes The Parklands worthy of support?

The Parklands is open 365 days a year, dawn to dusk free of charge!  We receive no tax dollar support for our annual operations and rely fully on our donors to keep the Parklands safe, clean, fun and beautiful.

How would you say “Thank You” to someone who donates to The Parklands, or who is thinking about donating?

Thank you!  We truly appreciate all of your support and could not maintain The Parklands world-class standards—making it a clean, safe, fun and beautiful space for all—without it!



About the Author


Picture of Sam Stewart

Sam Stewart

As Director of Development & External Relations, Sam Stewart leads the development and communications teams, growing new and existing development and fundraising activities. He re-joined The Parklands team in June of 2018, bringing with him 12 years of experience in events management. Former roles include Director of Events and Programming at The Frazier History Museum and Facility and Programs Director at The Parklands of Floyds Fork, as well as managing catering, weddings and large-scale events for Sodexo and the Louisville Zoo. Sam has also worked in a consulting capacity on The Kentucky Experience at the World Equestrian Games. Sam is a graduate of the University of Louisville.