Washington’s National Park Fund works to fund priority projects in Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks, and we couldn’t do it without our dedicated supporters. Our Trailblazers series celebrates these passionate park lovers and all of the different ways they give back, whether by donating their time or talent, volunteering, fundraising, or something else entirely.
Meet Steve Dubiel, the recently appointed Chief Executive Officer at Washington’s National Park Fund! Steve is passionate about environmental stewardship, leadership development, and community engagement, with over two decades of leadership experience in the conservation sector. We are excited to have him as part of the WNPF team and lead the organization into the next stage of its growth!
Check out our press release announcing Steve’s appointment.
What are some of your most memorable experiences in our parks?
I have a lifetime of memories in Washington’s national parks and look forward to many more. Some of my most memorable experiences include my first hike up to Thornton Lakes in the North Cascades, where I spent a month building a trail in high school.
My time during that month inspired me to return the following summer where one highlight was climbing in the Northern Pickets. Aside from the North Cascades, I’m always inspired by the abundant wildlife I see in the Olympics, from bears to elk to sea otters to eagles. And, I love that I can see Mount Rainier from my bedroom in Seattle.
What is your favorite thing to do in the parks and do you have a favorite park?
I love to hike, backpack, and snowshoe in our national parks. Choosing a favorite park is like choosing a favorite child. I love each for different reasons and feel fortunate to live near three incredible parks!
What brought you to Washington’s National Park Fund?
My conservation career was inspired by the summer building trail in the North Cascades mentioned earlier. I’m fortunate to have spent my entire career supporting nonprofit organizations with missions that align with my values and passions. I can’t think of anything better than to support three incredible national parks.
Can you tell us about your role and what you do?
As CEO, I work with staff, board, partners, and donors to support our beloved national parks. I see our work as vital to making national parks accessible to everyone, as well as stewarding our parks for future generations.
What aspect of your role excites you the most?
I’m excited to be surrounded by people who love our national parks, to learn how our parks enrich people’s lives, and to work together to support these places. Like many people, our national parks inspired me to live in Washington State. I’m honored to play a small role in caring for the places that make Washington State a great place to live, work, play, and visit.
Are there any projects that we raise funds for that you’re especially passionate about?
I’m excited to support our volunteer efforts. Hands-on service to nature is an amazing way to connect with the land, to care for our planet, to get to know other volunteers, to learn more deeply about a place, to gain a deeper commitment to our national parks, and to connect with nature.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that people might not know about you?
Building that trail up to Thornton Lakes in the North Cascades in the 1980’s inspired my move to Washington State in the 1990’s. Simply put, that trail work inspired my conservation career, which has eventually brought me to join Washington’s National Park Fund!
We are so grateful for the many Trailblazers who help us achieve our mission. Interested in supporting the parks? There are lots of ways to give. Together, we’ll ensure our parks remain vibrant and everlasting for years to come.
Cover photo taken by Mitch Pittman, WNPF Creative Partner and Board Member.