We are thrilled to introduce Gene Bolinger as our Interim President. Gene’s long-standing connection with our organization and his profound understanding of our mission and values will ensure the continuity of our efforts to enhance our community’s greenspaces into the new year. We are fortunate to have Gene’s decades of experience enhancing Boston’s open spaces, which will welcome an inspiring new chapter for the Friends.

The staff’s dedication and professionalism have allowed for an incredibly smooth leadership transition over a busy holiday season, demonstrating the stability and strength of our organization. Gene’s background in open space and landscapes, coupled with 38 years of working and advocating for improvements to Boston’s park system make him a valuable addition to our team.

Gene was appointed to the Boston Parks Commission in 2023 and has served as a volunteer on the Friends Common Committee and Council, becoming Council Co-chair this year. As Vice President and head of the landscape architecture practice of Weston & Sampson for decades, he participated in completing the recent Master Plan for Boston Common. Gene enjoys exploring our downtown parks through the lens of a park user, identifying ways to better the park experience.

Gene will work alongside Liz Vizza as she prepares to part with the organization on December 31, 2024. We are immensely grateful to Liz for her unwavering dedication, inspiring leadership, and countless contributions to the Friends over the last 15 years. Liz, your impact on our organization will be felt for years to come.

Please join me in welcoming our newest Friend, Gene. We are excited to harness his expertise and look towards the future as he supports us during this transition and sets the Friends up for success in our next chapter, which will begin with the appointment of a new President in the first quarter of the new year.

Your continued support and feedback will be invaluable during this transition. If you have any questions or suggestions, please reach out to us at support@friendsofthepublicgarden.org.

See you in the parks,

Leslie Singleton Adam
Chair, Board of Directors