March 4, 2025

By Cassius M. Cash, President & CEO, Yosemite Conservancy

“Clarity in Mission.” That’s the phrase that has been rolling around in my head these past few weeks. Clarity is something we cherish — not just in our daily lives, but in the institutions that have long served the American people.

I’ve watched as federal agencies — from the National Park Service to the Department of Justice — have faced unprecedented shifts in their ability to carry out their missions. And now, with federally mandated reductions in force, hiring freezes, and policy changes hitting our beloved Yosemite, I find myself asking: How do we lead in a moment like this?

In moments of uncertainty, leadership isn’t about reacting — it’s about looking around the corner, anticipating the challenges ahead, and positioning ourselves to act with purpose when the time comes; or, as my staff will hear me say, “when the timing is ‘ripe.”

Learning from the Past, Preparing for the Future

My journey has been shaped by a series of experiences that have reinforced the importance of resilience and proactive leadership. Growing up in Memphis, Tennessee, my connection to nature was nurtured through the Boy Scouts, where I discovered the profound impact of the outdoors on personal growth. This early exposure laid the foundation for a career dedicated to preserving our nation’s natural treasures.

During my tenure as superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I faced numerous challenges that tested our resolve. From natural disasters to the unprecedented circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, each situation demanded adaptability and steadfast leadership. In response to the social unrest of 2020, I created a safe space in the Smokies for open and tough dialogue about how differences and past walks in life can serve as our strength for the challenges of today. These experiences underscored the power of community and the importance of fostering connections during turbulent times.

Strength in Partnership for Yosemite

I won’t sugarcoat it: these are difficult times. The reduction in force (RIF) orders that are now being required by the federal government will lead to additional staff departures — all of whom play vital roles in keeping Yosemite running.

There’s frustration, anxiety, and a great deal of unknowns. But one thing I do know is that Yosemite Conservancy will stand firm in our support of this park. We have spent more than a century investing in its future, and we will not walk away from this park and the folks who protect it now!

As we move forward, our role is clear: to be flexible, to be strategic, and to be unwavering in our commitment to this place and the people who love it. That means:

Reevaluating our impact: We’re looking at where our support can make the biggest difference. If federal hiring delays mean fewer seasonal staff, how can we step in to ensure critical projects continue? If park leadership needs new solutions to keep visitor services running, how can we be creative in our approach while remaining true to our own mission and knowing we can’t meet every need the NPS will have from these staffing reductions.

Advocating for the park’s needs: While Yosemite Conservancy is a nonpartisan organization, we will continue to work closely with partners and stakeholders who understand the importance of protecting national parks in times of transition.

Fostering community resilience: The Yosemite we know and love exists because of the people who have cared for it generation after generation. Our job is not just to protect the land, but to strengthen the network of park employees, volunteers, donors, and visitors who ensure its future.

The Road Ahead

I don’t have all the answers yet. But what I do have is experience, a deep love for this place, and a firm belief that together, we will find our way through. We will remain vigilant. We will be proactive. And we will stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners to ensure that Yosemite remains the extraordinary place it has always been.

So, I invite you to stand with us — and #ProtectOurParks.

Let’s embrace this challenge not with fear, but with determination. Let’s be bold in our thinking, steadfast in our commitment, and hopeful in our actions.

We are in this together.