OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK — The National Park Service has named a new superintendent for Olympic National Park.
Sula Jacobs, who is now the superintendent of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, is expected to begin her new role at the nearly 1 million-acre park in late July.
“With more than 17 years of experience, Sula is a seasoned leader and has held several permanent and acting superintendent positions throughout the agency,” said Regional Director Frank Lands. “Her strong communication skills and extensive work with partners and Tribes make her a great fit for this position.”
Jacobs replaces Sarah Creachbaum, who was promoted to regional director for the National Park Service in Alaska in January after serving at Olympic National Park for nine years.
Deputy Superintendent Lee Taylor is serving as acting superintendent now. Taylor plans to retire later this month when a new acting superintendent will be named, according to Penny Wagner, public information officer for the park.
“I am honored to join the incredible team that cares for Olympic National Park,” Jacobs is quoted as saying in a press release issued Wednesday.
“I look forward to working with the tribal nations, local communities and partner groups on how the National Park Service can preserve the diverse resources of the park and create the next generation of stewards and supporters.”
Jacobs began her career with the National Park Service as a management analyst with the office of the comptroller in the national office.
She went on to become an administrative officer at George Washington Memorial Parkway and later the assistant superintendent at Biscayne National Park.
Jacobs then served as the superintendent at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park before assuming her current superintendent position, which she has held since 2018.
Jacobs also has served as acting deputy superintendent at Yosemite National Park and acting superintendent at Biscayne National Park.
Jacobs has a master’s in public policy from the Goldman School of Public Policy at University of California at Berkeley, a bachelor’s in economics and East Asian studies from Washington and Lee University, and a graduate certificate in wilderness management from the University of Montana.
She said she looks forward to exploring the Olympic Peninsula with family, friends and her dog. She enjoys paddleboarding, hiking and baking.
