Flowers aren’t the only thing growing in Washington Square Park this spring, the Conservancy team is growing as well! WSPC is thrilled to announce our newest addition, Ashley Eyen, who is taking on the job of Deputy Director. 

While she may be new to WSPC, Ashley is no stranger to the park. “Washington Square Park was one of my first stops when I moved to the city over a decade ago,” she explains. “It feels incredible to be part of the team supporting a place so quintessentially NYC.” From free programs to spontaneous performances, there’s always something happening in the park, and that’s part of what excites Ashley about her new role. 

With a wealth of nonprofit experience and a passion for engaging people in the stewardship of urban green spaces, Ashley is ready to hit the ground running and isn’t intimidated by the hustle and bustle of NYC’s busiest park. “Washington Square Park represents something different to each person who spends time here,” explains Ashley. “Everyone has their reason for loving the park, and I love connecting with people and learning what they’re passionate about and why this place is meaningful to them.”

Ashley likes to spend her free time enjoying all the city has to offer, whether it’s a ferry ride to Governors Island, a long walk through Prospect Park, a day in the sun at Jacob Riis Beach, or an evening at the theater.  “I’ve always felt a special connection to the city, and to the village in particular, because my great uncle, Tom Eyen, lived here more than thirty years ago. He was a playwright and a New Yorker through and through, and I think about him all the time when I’m walking the same streets he used to walk.”

As the spring season progresses and the Conservancy starts up its community programming and volunteer work, Ashley is looking forward to getting outside and meeting everyone. She’s still honing in on her favorite spot in the park, so if you see her out and about introduce yourself and tell her what you love about your park!