Recognizing Nova Parks Executive Director Paul Gilbert on the Occasion of His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Paul Gilbert on his upcoming retirement after two decades of extraordinary leadership as Executive Director of NOVA Parks. Mr. Gilbert has transformed our park system into a vibrant, inclusive network of outdoor spaces that serve more than 2 million residents across Northern Virginia. His dedicated service to our region is worth celebrating and commemorating.

Mr. Gilbert became Executive Director of NOVA Parks in 2005 after serving many years on the NOVA Parks Board. During his tenure as Executive Director, Mr. Gilbert remained steadfastly dedicated to public service in land acquisition, conservation, and management.

Under Mr. Gilbert's visionary leadership, NOVA Parks completed 22 major land-acquisition transactions totaling over 1,800 acres of parkland, 15 new parks, and 3 expanded parks. These acquisitions increased access to nature, preserved precious habitat, and elevated the quality of life in our region.

A hallmark of Mr. Gilbert's career has been his commitment to telling the untold stories of Northern Virginia. Under his guidance, NOVA Parks made significant efforts to illuminate the forgotten stories of the many communities that helped shape Fairfax County. Mr. Gilbert's vision ensured that NOVA Parks was not only protecting natural landscapes but also honoring the diverse communities and stories that helped shape Northern Virginia.

Mr. Gilbert's many contributions to public service have been recognized throughout his career, including receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Outdoor Recreation award from the Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation and the Land Manager of the Year award from the Mid-Atlantic Mountain Bike Enthusiasts. Along with his tremendous service to NOVA Parks, Mr. Gilbert has also dedicated his time as an Executive-in-Residence for George Mason University's Recreation Management Program, Chairman of the Board of Visit Fairfax, and a member of the Board for The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia.

Mr. Speaker, Paul Gilbert's decades of vision, leadership, and dedication to our parks system will benefit our region for generations to come. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Mr. Gilbert for his years of dedicated service and wishing him a joyful and well-earned retirement.

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