Conversation with Phil Francis, Blue Ridge Parkway Superintendent
After 34 years with the National Park Service, Phil Francis was appointed Superintendent of the Blue Ridge Parkway in November 2005. In his many years of service Phil has worked in the Shenandoah, Yosemite, and Great Smoky Mountains national parks.
Throughout his tenure with the NPS Phil has received numerous awards and recognitions including winning the Department of Interior’s Meritorious Award, being listed in the Congressional Record in 2006, and having a new species to science named after him by the Discover Life in America organization in appreciation for his support of their projects.
Growing up in Grover, NC, Phil then traveled to Clemson University where he receievd a BS in Administrative Management. Phil is currently married to Dr. Becky Nichols, a scientist with Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In an interview with the Blue Ridge Parkway 75th, Inc, Phil answers these important questions regarding the past, present and future of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Where did the idea for the Blue Ridge Parkway originate?
- Why is the Blue Ridge Parkway important?
- What is a National Park Service “unit”?
- As the Parkway enters its 75th year, what are the biggest challenges it faces?
- What’s the most exciting thing about the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary?
Read Phil’s answers in the full interview published on Virtual Blue Ridge.
