The Yosemite Conservancy recently announced Cassius M. Cash as its new president and CEO, bringing a fresh perspective to lead the organization’s mission of conservation, public engagement, and environmental education. Set to assume his new role in January 2025, Cash has a profound background in conservation, having served as superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park for nearly a decade, with 15 years in the National Park Service and 18 years in the U.S. Forest Service.
Throughout his career, Cash has been recognized for his dedication to fostering inclusivity and supporting the next generation of environmental stewards. In the Smokies, Cash developed initiatives like Smokies Hikes for Healing, which brought people together for open conversations on race and inclusivity within the inspiring natural landscapes of the park. For this work, he received the Stephen Mather Award, underscoring his commitment to creating parks as spaces for both healing and education. His approach to conservation goes beyond preserving natural beauty; it embraces the idea of parks as communal grounds for connection, reflection, and transformation.
“Cassius is a remarkable individual — passionate, hard-working, and very approachable. He has a deep understanding of what’s happening on the frontlines of our national parks,” said Yosemite Conservancy Board Chair Steve Ciesinski. “From the moment we met Cassius we were impressed. And the more we talked, the more confident we felt in his ability to lead Yosemite Conservancy in a second century of service to — and partnership with — in Yosemite National Park.”
A New Chapter for the Yosemite Conservancy
As Cash steps into his new role, he builds on the impactful leadership of Frank Dean, who doubled annual donations to the Conservancy during his nine years at the helm, supporting landmark projects like the restoration of Mariposa Grove and the opening of the Yosemite Welcome Center. Dean’s legacy includes increasing the organization’s support to Yosemite National Park, securing over $200 million in the past decade, which has gone towards projects that protect Yosemite’s ecosystems and enhance the visitor experience.
Cash’s vision for the Yosemite Conservancy continues the legacy of preservation and community engagement. He aims to inspire deeper donor support and promote the park as a place where all can learn and contribute to its ongoing protection. “Being able to assist with the preservation of a natural wonder like Yosemite National Park fills my cup of purpose,” Cash stated, highlighting his dedication to guiding the Conservancy into its second century.
Engaging with Yosemite: Programs, Art Classes, and Volunteer Opportunities
Alongside its new leadership, the Yosemite Conservancy continues to offer a robust lineup of programs designed to bring people closer to the park’s natural wonders. Registration is now open for the Conservancy’s 2025 art classes, led by a talented team of volunteer artists. These classes provide unique opportunities to connect with Yosemite’s landscapes through creativity, with sessions ranging from watercolor and plein-air painting to photography.
The Conservancy also hosts a variety of guided outdoor programs, designed for all skill levels and interests. Visitors can embark on backcountry hikes with knowledgeable guides, explore diverse ecosystems, and learn about the intricate processes that maintain the park’s rich biodiversity. For those looking to get hands-on in conservation efforts, the Conservancy offers volunteer opportunities, allowing participants to assist with trail restoration, habitat protection, and other essential projects that contribute to Yosemite’s upkeep.
These initiatives not only enhance the visitor experience but also foster a sense of stewardship among participants. With Cash’s leadership and a renewed focus on inclusivity and education, the Conservancy invites everyone—donors, artists, adventurers, and volunteers—to be a part of Yosemite’s future.
For those interested in experiencing Yosemite in a deeper, more meaningful way, now is a perfect time to explore the Yosemite Conservancy’s programs and become a part of the effort to protect and preserve one of America’s most iconic national parks. To learn more, visit yosemite.org.
Learn more about ways to support the Conservancy at yosemite.org/giving
Examples of projects that Yosemite Conservancy has funded …
- Bridalveil Fall vista point restoration
- New Welcome Center in Yosemite Valley
- Mariposa Grove restoration
- Yosemite Valley Loop Trail improvements
- Junior Ranger program
- Bighorn Sheep species restoration
- Bear-proof food lockers
- Ask a Climber program
- Lower Yosemite Fall trails and facilities improvements
