New Leaders Step Up for Lake Superior Parks

National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation names new slate of Board of Director Officers

NPLSF has named Café Imports founder and CEO Andrew Miller as Chair of its Board of Directors, former Duluth Mayor Emily Larson as Board Treasurer, and community volunteer Jessica Curtes as Board Secretary.

“It’s a vital time for our national parks, and as the philanthropic partner for Lake Superior’s five parks, NPLSF has a big job,” said NPLSF Executive Director Tom Irvine. “We are grateful that these three leaders have stepped up to guide us in expanding our work to protect, preserve, and enhance our parks.”

NPLSF’s core work includes raising private donations – from individuals, foundations, and businesses – to support park projects that would otherwise not be possible. Current major programs include work to improve park resilience through a transition off fossil fuel, fund education programs and cultural heritage interpretation, and support scientific research in the parks, including a major new initiative around struggling moose populations.

NPLSF’s board includes retired park superintendents and community leaders from across the region, with outgoing Board Chair Carol Brady and other organizational founders providing vital commitment and continuity. The new officers bring extensive expertise.

• Andrew Miller, Board Chair, is an entrepreneur, sustainable business owner, and long time conservationist. His specialty coffee importing business, Café Imports, serves craft coffee roasters around the world.

• Emily Larson, Board Treasurer, served as Mayor of Duluth from 2016-2024. Partnering with tribal nations, environmental advocates, state and federal government partners and industry stakeholders, her leadership helped secure hundreds of millions of dollars for public-facing land and water projects. Emily currently works as the President and CEO of the Family Partnership.

• Jessica Curtes, Board Secretary, is a former professional snowsports photographer with an expanding interest in climate change and resilience, decarbonization and electrification, and the psychological impacts of a warming world. A dual citizen of the United States and Australia, she is committed to making a positive impact for future generations.  

Visit our Board and Staff page to meet all of the committed leaders working toward our vision for healthy, vibrant Lake Superior parks. 

###

About The NPLSF

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF) exists to provide financial support for projects and programs that preserve the natural resources and cultural heritage of the five Lake Superior national parks: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Grand Portage National Monument, Isle Royale National Park, Keweenaw National Historical Park, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Funded through grants and private donations, NPLSF projects and programs ensure that these great parks and historic sites are maintained for the enjoyment of all current and future visitors.

To learn how you can support our work visit nplsf.org/donate.