American Hiking Society Names Jessica Reid Executive Director

September, 2026

The American Hiking Society Board of Directors is proud to announce the appointment of Jessica Reid as Executive Director, effective September 14, 2026, concluding a national search launched earlier this year.

Reid joins AHS from the USO, where she led teams through complex change while keeping the organization’s mission and people at the center, as well as scaled fundraising through a relationship-driven approach, growing philanthropic and corporate support and expanding the reach of the USO’s mission. She brings 12 years of nonprofit leadership experience spanning organizational transformation, fundraising, and program growth.

Jessica sees connection between trails and leadership: “Trails have taught me a lot about leadership. Sometimes the trail asks you to challenge yourself and keep climbing when the summit feels far away. Other times, it asks you to slow down, be quiet, and pay attention to what is around you. Both of these experiences are incredibly valuable. I believe leadership is much the same, in that we need the courage to be honest about where we are, the clarity to know where we’re going, and the humility to listen along the way. The leadership philosophy I embrace  is “clear is kind.” When we are clear about our purpose, our priorities, and our commitment to one another, we create the conditions for people to do their best work."

“Jessica stood out in a deep national field for her growth-minded leadership, her fundraising acumen, and her judgment,” said Chuck Frank, Board Chair. “She arrives as we celebrate fifty years of empowering all to enjoy, share, and preserve the hiking experience, and she is exactly the leader for the next fifty.”

"I’m especially honored to join the American Hiking Society as we celebrate 50 years of protecting and advocating for America’s trails," said Jessica Reid. "This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate all that has been accomplished while also looking boldly toward the next 50 years. I’m excited to bring people together around a shared belief that trails are essential to our health and well-being and to the communities and places we all share.”

The Board extends its deep gratitude to Clare Zlatic Blankemeyer, who served as Interim Executive Director since April and guided the organization through a record National Trails Day, a full season of Volunteer Vacations, and the launch of its 50th-anniversary year.