New Orleans City Park CEO departs, new CEO appointed

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — The CEO of the City Park Conservancy is stepping down after more than three years in the role.

On Tuesday, June 25, the CPC announced that CEO Cara Lambright is stepping down to take a leadership position in Texas and will be replaced by the current vice president and chief administrative officer, Rebecca Dietz.

CPC leaders stated that, during her tenure, Lambright made “substantial contributions” to the development and sustainability of City Park. According to the organization, a few of her accomplishments include the park’s transition to a nonprofit conservancy model and overseeing an overhaul of the park’s brand identity.

CPC officials said Lambright assisted in recovering from losses brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and Hurricane Ida. The park also invested over $1 million in stormwater management improvements, updated key park attractions and launched new programming during her time in the role.

They said Lambright also selected Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. to lead a “revisioning” of the park.

Chair of the CPC board, Liz Sloss, spoke positively of Lambright, saying, “We are immensely grateful to Cara Lambright for her outstanding leadership and dedication during her tenure at City Park,” and “Her strategic vision and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our organization, setting a strong foundation for future growth and sustainability.”

“It has been a great honor to lead this exceptional group of professionals at one of the most beloved parks in the world,” said Lambright. “We have accomplished so much together, supported by two dynamite boards and dedicated donors, and have set the Park on solid footing for generations to come. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank all the people that have helped make this happen – for their vision and stewardship, and for their trust in me.”

Lambright’s replacement, Dietz, rises to the role with a background in parks administration and experience at the Audubon Nature Institute, as well as over eight years of experience in the New Orleans City Attorney’s Office.

“Without a doubt, Rebecca Dietz is the right leader to build upon the important work we are doing at City Park, and ensure trusted leadership,” said Chair of the CPIA Board David Waller. “Her proven track record and deep understanding of parks management, fundraising and her political acumen will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and planning efforts to better serve our community.”

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