Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy announces Beth Downing as interim executive director

The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy (BOPC) announced Chief Financial Officer Beth Downing will step into the role of interim executive director following the departure of Stephanie Crockatt on May 18.

Downing, a certified public accountant, with 35 years of experience working in government and not-for-profit sectors, has been with the conservancy since 2012. She will oversee all operations, as the board-appointed search committee works with Koya Partners to conduct a professional and inclusive search process for the new executive director.

A press release stated, “Under Beth’s leadership, the conservancy will ensure a smooth transition period. Park-users and local communities can be confident that it’s ‘business as usual’ at all of Buffalo’s Historic Olmsted Parks, and they can look forward to everything the parks have to offer, all summer long.”

Outgoing Executive Director Stephanie Crockatt leaves after a nine-year tenure in the role, to take up a position in Sarasota, Florida, leading a new conservancy – and where she will be closer to family.

“Stephanie’s leadership and achievements are well known to our region,” BOPC Board Chair Bart Kresse said. “Under her stewardship, our Olmsted parks are vibrant, healthy and beautiful. And, most importantly, they are magnets for residents to use every day, to walk, run, play golf in and just find peace and relaxation. We will miss her and want to wish her all the best in her next position, and thank her for her dedication and hard work.”

The press release added, “BOPC will be providing updates throughout the executive director search to ensure a fully transparent process.”