Smokies Life is pleased to announce Jacqueline Harp as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With nearly 18 years of leadership experience at REI Co-op, most recently as Regional Director for the Southeast U.S., Jacqueline brings extensive expertise in retail management, business development, and team leadership. She oversaw a $200M budget and managed 19 store managers and over 800 employees across multiple states, all while fostering a culture of inclusion as Co-Chair of REI's BIPOC Inclusion Network.
A lifelong advocate for the outdoors and a passionate supporter of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Jacqueline has built a deep connection to the park, having completed the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certificate Program and collaborated with the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. She serves on TennGreen Land Conservancy and Lookout Mountain Conservancy boards, where she contributes to conservation strategy and advocacy efforts in Tennessee.
As CEO, Jacqueline will lead Smokies Life in its mission to enhance the public’s understanding of and appreciation for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park through education, retail, and publishing. Her strategic vision, leadership experience, and passion for conservation make her ideally suited to help the organization grow its impact and deepen its partnerships in the years ahead.
