Cohen Selected as Chief of Interpretation and Education of Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Superintendent Kevin Schneider announced the selection of Laura Cohen as chief of interpretation and education of Acadia National Park on Monday, August 26th. Cohen is currently the digital content strategist for the National Park Service Office of Communication. She will assume her new role September 1st.

In a press release, Schneider said “Laura is an exceptional addition to our leadership team.She will be a strong collaborator with the local communities, and she deeply understands the technology we need to communicate with people in new ways.”

The chief of interpretation and education at Acadia National Park works with staff and partners to oversee Acadia’s visitor center operations; digital and interpretive media such as the park website, social media accounts, exhibits, signs, and waysides; education programs such as the Schoodic Education Adventure; and ranger-led walks and talks.

On her appointment, Cohen said "“I am honored to be selected for this important position at Acadia National Park. It is an exciting time to be joining the team of staff, volunteers, and partners that make Acadia such a special place. I have a deep passion for this park and look forward to working together with the surrounding communities and schools.”

With over 17 years of experience with the National Park Service, Cohen has held numerous leadership positions since she started her career at Haleakala National Park, HI. She has served as chief of interpretation and education at Prince William Forest Park, as well as interpretive media specialist and acting deputy chief of interpretation and education at the National Mall and Memorial Parks. She has also completed acting roles as the chief of the Office of Education and Outreach for the NPS Natural Resources, Stewardship & Sciences Directorate, and interpretive program specialist for the NPS Office of Interpretation and Education. She has also held park ranger positions at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park and at Haleakala National Park before moving to Acadia National Park in her current role. Cohen served as the acting chief of interpretation and education for Acadia National Park from February to July of this year.

Cohen graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Environmental Policy and Communications. An avid hiker, she already lives in the area and looks forward to exploring more of Acadia and Maine in the coming years.