Elizabeth Silkes will take over as CEO of the Grand Canyon Conservancy on February 3/Grand Canyon Conservancy
Elizabeth Silkes, who has a long history of working with nonprofits and international agencies, has been hired by the Grand Canyon Conservancy to be its next CEO.
Silkes, who begins work February 3, in the past has served as executive director of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, where she guided over 370 sites worldwide in promoting human rights and justice, and has held leadership roles at Cinereach, FilmAid International, and Amnesty International USA.
A recognized global expert in cultural heritage, civic engagement, and transitional justice, Silkes has advised organizations such as UNESCO and ICOM-US.
“I am thrilled to be taking on this role at GCC, where the community’s efforts are truly remarkable. I am particularly excited to deepen collaborations with the Intertribal Working Group and the 11 tribes connected to the Grand Canyon,” she said.
According to a release from the Conservancy, Silkes views the Grand Canyon and the Conservancy "as powerful models for how natural spaces can inspire healing, conservation, and community action."
“National parks, like the Grand Canyon, hold immense potential not only for recreation but for fostering social cohesion and addressing challenges such as climate change. GCC and the park can lead the way in engaging new generations of passionate advocates and stewards,” she said.
Grand Canyon Superintendent Ed Keable said that "[A]s the official partner to Grand Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon Conservancy performs invaluable service to our mission of preserving this remarkable place and making it available to our visitors. Elizabeth Silkes brings a wide array of experience and a deep passion for the Grand Canyon as the new GCC chief executive officer. I look forward to working with Elizabeth and her talented team in the new year and into the future to meet our shared mission.”
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