Katie Bruner Named Inaugural Executive Director of Preserve Our Parks

Milwaukee, WI — [July 7, 2025] — Preserve Our Parks, the leading nonprofit advocate for the protection and promotion of Milwaukee County’s parks and public green spaces, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Katie Bruner as its first-ever Executive Director. Bruner brings more than two decades of experience in fundraising, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership to this new role, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization.

Bruner’s career has centered on building strong, sustainable institutions through strategic development and community-driven programming. Most recently, she served as Director of Development at COA Youth & Family Centers and previously held leadership roles at the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and Share Our Strength. With a track record of growing fundraising capacity, forging meaningful partnerships, and amplifying local impact, Bruner is uniquely positioned to lead Preserve Our Parks as it continues its vital advocacy work across Milwaukee County.

Preserve Our Parks has been a tireless champion for equitable access to public parks and natural spaces for more than 25 years. With a mission to protect and preserve public parks and open space for the benefit of current and future generations, the organization works through community advocacy, public education, and policy leadership to ensure Milwaukee’s parks remain free, accessible, and flourishing.

“I’m honored to join Preserve Our Parks as its first Executive Director,” said Bruner. “Our parks are not just places of recreation—they are foundational to Milwaukee’s identity, health, and future. The work we do is essential to ensuring that Milwaukee remains a world-class city—one that future generations, from all walks of life, can enjoy and take pride in.”

Patricia Jursik, Board President of Preserve Our Parks, shared her enthusiasm for this new chapter: “As we look ahead to a bold future for our parks, we are thrilled to welcome Katie Bruner as our first Executive Director. Her leadership, expertise, and passion for building community make her the ideal person to guide Preserve Our Parks into its next phase of growth and impact.”

For more information about Preserve Our Parks and how you can get involved, visit www.preserveourparks.org. Patricia Jursik, 414-732-1816

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.