FOLAR is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Jackson Christopher Bartlett as its new Executive Director, effective August 1, 2025.
Along with his many years of experience in leadership, fundraising, communications, and board relations, Dr. Bartlett brings a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, education, and community engagement.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jackson as the next Executive Director of FOLAR” said Dr. Christian Volk, FOLAR Board Chair. “He brings a wealth of experience, a collaborative spirit, and a bold vision that aligns perfectly with our mission at a time when environmental leadership is more important than ever.”
Dr. Bartlett is an accomplished researcher, teacher, and community leader whose work on neighborhood change, urban development, and building successful organizations has prepared him for this role. Prior to joining FOLAR, Dr. Bartlett served as Director of Inclusive Education at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he led professional development in diversity, equity, and inclusion for more than 60,000 students, faculty, and staff across VCU and VCU Health. Other past experience includes his time as faculty at Northwestern University and Ball State University, and work with his hometown community foundation, the Council on Michigan Foundations, the Bloomington Urban Forestry Research Project, and numerous community development organizations across the US. Jackson holds a Ph.D. in African American Studies from Northwestern University.
He comes to FOLAR with a deep commitment to hands-on, community-driven work that is authentic, sustainable, and equitable across our diverse stakeholder communities. Jackson is a Petersburg resident where he has enjoyed volunteering with FOLAR and running on the trails.
“I’m honored to join FOLAR and lead this exceptional team,” said Dr. Bartlett. “Together, we will continue its legacy of outstanding work conserving and protecting the Appomattox River, expanding community access to the Appomattox River Trail & Park system, and ensuring a healthier, more equitable blueway-greenway corridor for future generations.”
As FOLAR’s Executive Director, Jackson will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, operations, programs, partnerships, and community outreach, guiding FOLAR into a new era of environmental leadership and impact.
Jackson succeeds Wendy Austin, who has served as Executive Director since 2015. Under Wendy’s leadership, FOLAR significantly expanded its impact, building strong partnerships with local governments and stakeholders to maximize resources for the conservation and enhancement of the Appomattox River and the community.
“Leading FOLAR has been an incredibly fulfilling journey, and I am immensely proud of the progress we have made together with our dedicated team and community. As I step aside, I am excited and confident that Jackson’s passion, expertise, and vision make him the ideal leader to guide FOLAR into its next chapter.” said Wendy.
Correspondingly, Heather Barrar, who has served as FOLAR Regional Trails Program Director alongside Wendy since 2018 and has been integral to the team’s achievements, will expand her role leading regional collaborative active transportation and environmental initiatives.
To ensure a smooth transition, Wendy and the FOLAR Board will work closely with Jackson over the next month. During this time, they will be organizing several meetings and events to introduce Jackson. You can expect more information about these events in the coming days. If you’d like to congratulate or contact Jackson, you can email him at jbartlett@folar-va.org.
As we embark on this new chapter for FOLAR, we are confident that Dr. Bartlett’s leadership will bring great things to our organization. We ask for your support in welcoming him to this new role and in continuing to work together to achieve our mission.
SUPPORT FOLAR’S MISSION
As we welcome the future, the FOLAR team is deeply grateful to its partners, sponsors, and members who continue to support the organization through this leadership transition.
You can help FOLAR continue its work to conserve, protect, and promote the Appomattox River by making a donation today. Your contribution ensures that FOLAR can maintain essential community programs and move forward with key active transportation and conservation projects.
How to Support FOLAR and our Mission:
- Donate securely online: www.folar-va.org/donate
- Mail a check to: Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR) at the address below
- Show your support on social media! Congratulate Jackson and share your messages of encouragement on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Together, we can build a stronger, more accessible Appomattox River for everyone to enjoy.
Friends of the Lower Appomattox River
Appomattox River Center
235 N Market St
Petersburg, VA 23803
