National Park Service Names Ashley Pipkin As Next Superintendent Of Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

Last month, the National Park Service named Ashley Pipkin as the next Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site. Pipkin will begin her new role June 24.   

“Carl Sandburg Home is a special place where history, literature and landscape come together,” said Superintendent Ashley Pipkin. “I’m honored to join this community and look forward to helping preserve and share its stories and legacy.” 

Pipkin previously served in the NPS Overflights Program, where she was the acting program manager for the previous year. Before assuming that position, she worked as a planner for the program, developing and implementing multiparty agreements and Air Tour Management Plans for parks across the country.  

Since beginning her NPS career in 2011, Pipkin has worked extensively in western parks, providing technical assistance on night skies and natural sounds. She has emphasized connecting communities with park resources throughout her career.  

She previously served as acting superintendent of Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument and has held resource management roles at Boston Harbor Islands, Isle Royale, and Lake Mead. 

At the ceremony, Congressman Chuck Edwards welcomes Pipkins as the new Superintendent. He said he raised the need to fill the vacancy with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, and emphasized the importance of strong leadership to support park staff, protect the site’s historic resources, and enhance visitors’ experience.