What brought you to Friends of the Riverfront?

I’m excited to join a fantastic team and organization that is advancing transformative social and environmental work along our riverfronts and with neighboring communities. I am a trail and outdoors enthusiast – canoeing, camping, hiking. Advocating, expanding, and ensuring clean, safe, and accessible riverfront trails isn’t just a professional vocation – it’s a personal conviction.

What are you looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to meeting the great network of stewards, volunteers, crew members, neighbors, and supporters that makes Friends work possible. Prior to Friends I served for three years as Assistant Director of Community Engagement in the University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Engagement and Community Affairs. Engaging communities, growing relationships, meeting neighbors – that’s really fulfilling work.

Would you tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born and raised in Meadville, Pennsylvania and have lived in Pittsburgh for 12 years – currently in Gibsonia with my wife and our 1 year old daughter. I enjoy running, canoeing the tri-state area, hiking in Allegheny County’s nine county parks, road tripping with my wife, reading comics, tinkering on our house and property, and spending as much time with friends and family as possible.

What is your favorite mode of trail enjoyment?

I’ve been a runner for 14 years, so that’s my usual go-to. There is nothing better than an early morning run on the trail. Biking is probably second on the list. I’d like to get a jogging stroller so I can bring my daughter out with me, if she’ll sit still for that long!

Join Alex out on the Trails at one of our next stewardship events. Check out the calendar of upcoming events, here!