Jennifer Balcom Dewinter

MOUNT VERNON — Jennifer (Balcom) DeWinter has been named park manager for Ariel-Foundation Park.  The Foundation Park Conservancy Board of Directors made the announcement during a December special board meeting.

“With the new year upon us, it is exciting to share that we are looking forward to beginning 2024 with a new park manager who brings high energy, excellent planning skills, and a new lens for programming and partnerships for Ariel-Foundation Park,” said Mike Miller, Foundation Park Conservancy Program Committee chair. 

“Jenni is poised to hit the ground running so that the best care possible can be provided for this special 250-acre community gem of a park. The Foundation Park Conservancy Board could not be more excited.”

DeWinter earned her bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University. She brings a wealth of experience in human resources, training, compliance, development, and event coordination. A Mount Vernon High School graduate, DeWinter is eager to build programs and maximize the use of Ariel-Foundation Park while collaborating with the City of Mount Vernon on operational and maintenance needs.

DeWinter returns to her hometown after four years in Germany as a Department of Defense (DoD) spouse. Seven years prior to that, she was an HR executive in Savannah, Georgia.

She is thrilled to be home and among her family and friends.

“Returning to Knox County is a true gift, and to be afforded this opportunity, an incredible honor!” she said. “After living abroad, I have an even greater affinity for community and the environment.

“Ariel-Foundation Park is our local treasure and epicenter for all to come, celebrate, recharge, and reconnect. I am determined to work hard and provide creative solutions to help sustain this beautiful asset so its legacy may continue,” said DeWinter.

DeWinter started her position on Dec. 15.