New Ross County Park's director aims to provide more programming, trails

CHILLICOTHE ― If you see a woman walking barefoot through the woods, it may be the new Ross County Park director.

Myranda Vance, a nature enthusiast and accomplished leader, has been an integral part of the park district for a decade. In January, she assumed the director role following the departure of former director Joe Letsche.

Vance is eager to bring a fresh perspective to the park. With her arrival, visitors can expect imaginative events and a renewed focus on environmental education that will transform the park experience for visitors of all ages.

Vance's origins are modest, as she relocated to Chillicothe from Kentucky while being a stay-at-home mother living on a farm alongside her spouse and two children. Following her divorce, she had to find a way to support herself. She spent years doing odd jobs and, eventually, secured a position as an outdoor educator with the park district.

She said the park district has "saved" her from difficult points in her life. In the last 10 years, Vance has done almost every job with the district and is proud to call herself director.

"There are 1,000 other people who are more qualified to do this job, who have park experience, who know the community better," Vance said. "But I know the job. I know the work and I'm passionate about it. I love the park district so much."

In the new position, she hopes to focus on programming and expanding trails. Much of this year has been packed with finishing up projects "already in motion" from the previous director like working on Herron Downs, the bike path and other major projects.

In the coming years, the district hopes to bring more miles of trails to Ross County and create more ADA-accessible spaces. Her ultimate goal is to break down barriers for people who want to enjoy the outdoors.

Given Vance's initial role as an educator within the district, she holds a deep passion for programming. The district is currently exploring innovative approaches to offer equipment and professional courses for interested people who want to learn new skills outdoors.

"I love interacting with the community… being able to be a good connection between the parks and the community. I love that part," Vance said. "I love being able to teach people about the outdoors to give them new experiences and opportunities."

The district hosting a booth at the Ross County Fair and selling items at Mill City Apparel to increase community outreach.

The district is working on a strategic 10-year plan that will include the best ways to serve the community.

Overall, Vance aims to continue developing district staff members, applying for funding and spending the levy money wisely.

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"I have this fabulous team of smart, passionate people and if the group of us can't make something happen, then nobody will," Vance said. "We're not doing all this for nothing. We're teaching the future generations how to take care of it... We're building a legacy for the future."

The park district office is located at 15 N Paint St, #301. For more information, email [email protected] or call 740-773-8794.

Megan Becker is a reporter for the Chillicothe Gazette. Call her at 740-349-1106, email her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @BeckerReporting

This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: New Ross County Park District director to bring more education, trails