Jajko’s journey with SGP began in 2018 as an AmeriCorps member, where she helped expand community outreach and strengthen connections throughout the Susquehanna Greenway.
Following her service term, she joined the organization’s staff and served as Director of Communications and Outreach for nearly seven years.
During that time, she led several comprehensive communications plans that elevated the organization’s visibility and impact, including the development of a new website, a refreshed logo and brand identity, expanded digital outreach, and the integration of innovative technologies that strengthened both communications and organizational operations.
Earning a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Bucknell University, Jajko’s career has centered on connecting people with the outdoors and telling the stories of the landscapes, communities, and partners that make the Susquehanna Greenway a unique recreational resource.
Under her communications leadership, SGP experienced significant growth in public engagement, expanded map and guide resources, strengthened community partnerships, and launched successful initiatives such as the Susquehanna Greenway Outdoor Expo.
“For years, I have had the privilege of growing alongside this organization, first as an AmeriCorps member, then as a staff member, and now in this new role,” Jajko shared.
“I am incredibly honored to serve as the Executive Director of SGP. The mission of the Susquehanna Greenway is close to my heart, and I look forward to working alongside our staff, Board of Directors, volunteers, and partners to continue creating meaningful opportunities for people to experience the outdoors in our region.”
Jajko stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director during a pivotal period of organizational transition, providing stability, vision, and leadership while continuing to advance SGP’s mission.
During that time, she guided the organization through staff transitions, strengthened internal operations, maintained critical programs and partnerships, and positioned SGP for a strong future.
"We are so excited that Alana has accepted the permanent position of Executive Director,” said the SGP Board Chair, Kyle Benson. “Throughout her interim time, she brought a new level of transparency, accountability, and organization that has set SGP up for a successful future under her leadership.
“She is a very collaborative leader that cares deeply about her staff and is focused on building strong partnerships across the community. We are confident she will lead SGP in alignment with our mission and vision."
New Staff Members
As SGP enters this exciting new chapter, the organization has also welcomed two new staff members who will help advance its mission and expand its capacity.
Katie Caputo joined the team as Programs Coordinator, supporting SGP’s land and water trail initiatives, community programming, stewardship efforts, and implementation projects throughout the Greenway.
Nina Riggle joined as Administrative and Operations Assistant, providing essential support in organizational administration, operations, and day-to-day coordination.
This summer, SGP is also grateful for the support of two CORE Susquehanna AmeriCorps members, Katherine Hendricks (Education & Outreach) and Kyle Ehmann (River Towns), as well as a Susquehanna University intern, Owen Miller (Community Engagement & Programs).
"Under Alana's leadership, and with two new team members, Katie and Nina, who fit the vision and mission of the organization perfectly, SGP is in position to achieve great things in the future,“ said SGP Board Secretary, Carrie Pauling. “Already, our special events are enhanced, our operations are improved, and the staff has refreshed energy. Alana's years of service with SGP make her a natural fit to rise as the next person to lead the organization into a strong and thriving partnership for the communities within the Greenway."
SGP Vice Chair, Wes Bernstein, also added, "I could not be more excited to welcome the promotion of Alana Jajko to Executive Director of the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership. Alana brings a track record of commitment, organization, and creative outreach to the organization. We are confident the future leadership of SGP will flow as steadily as the Susquehanna River itself!"
In her role as Executive Director, Jajko will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, fundraising, organizational development, community partnerships, and efforts to promote and improve access to outdoor recreation throughout the Susquehanna Greenway.
“The strength of the Susquehanna Greenway has always been the people who care for it,” Jajko said. “I am fortunate to work alongside a passionate staff, dedicated Board of Directors, committed volunteers, and incredible partners. Together, we will continue building on nearly two decades of improving trails and river access, connecting communities, and inspiring people to experience and care for the Susquehanna River and Greenway.”
Founded in 2006, the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing a connected corridor of parks, trails, river access points, conserved landscapes, and vibrant communities along Pennsylvania’s Susquehanna River.
Through collaboration with local, state, and national partners, SGP works to improve, protect, and promote access to outdoor recreation and the natural and cultural resources that define the Susquehanna Greenway.
[Posted: June 24, 2026] PA Environment Digest
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