The board of the Belle Isle Conservancy named Meagan Elliott as its new president and CEO after a five-month search.
For the past 10 years, Elliott has led green space planning initiatives for the city of Detroit, first as chief parks planner and since 2021 as deputy chief financial officer. She led the Joe Louis Greenway Framework Plan, and is the city lead in the $350 million campaign for a Unified Greenway for the Joe Louis Greenway and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.
Elliott earned her doctorate in sociology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and has a master’s degree in urban and regional planning.
“Through academic study and on-the-ground experience, Meagan Elliott deeply understands the vital importance of Belle Isle as a park for Detroit families,” says Nancy Vella, board chair of the Belle Isle Conservancy. “Meagan also appreciates the role of Belle Isle on a national and international stage, as one of the nation’s premier parks along our border with Canada. We could not be more pleased to bring her on board as the Belle Isle Conservancy’s next leader.”
Elliott takes over on July 1. Founded in 2011, the mission of Belle Isle Conservancy is to protect, preserve, restore, and enhance the natural environment, historic structures, and unique character of Belle Isle as a public park for the enjoyment of all. It operates the Belle Isle Aquarium and raises funds for needed projects and improvements on the island. The group works in close partnership with the state of Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources and the city of Detroit.
