Staff Retirements
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Bill McGowan Former Outdoor Education Manager In June, 2021, Bill McGowan, Outdoor Education Manager, retired after 40 years serving JCPRD. Bill says, “I anticipated working for the district for a couple of years before continuing my career with the National Park Service. Never did I envision that I would have the opportunity to share my passion for nature and the outdoors in my hometown for my entire career.” During Bill’s tenure, he created more than 25 outdoor education programs, participated in the planning of Ernie Miller Nature Center’s three expansion phases, and the creation of TimberRidge Adventure Center. Bill has received the following honors: National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Master Interpretive Manager Award; NAI Region 6 / Lifetime Achievement & Distinguished Professional Interpreter Awards; JCPRD Employee of the Year in 2005 and 1995; and he received recognition by the Olathe Chamber of Commerce in appreciation for his service to the Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Council, and by the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education in recognition of outstanding service and dedication. In his retirement, Bill is looking forward to more time with family and friends, traveling, and visiting parks of all kinds! One thing is for sure, the Ernie Miller Nature Center, TimberRidge Adventure Center, and Outdoor Education Programs are priceless gems for the County and District and have been built upon from Bill’s efforts, dedication, and passion. Thank You Bill! We look forward to seeing you in the park soon!
Molly Postlewait Former Senior Park Naturalist If you have been to Ernie Miller Nature Center in the past 24 years, you have probably met Molly! Molly has created over 50 programs for Ernie Miller Nature Center and conducted over 5,000 programs during her JCPRD career. She is a world renowned storyteller, fan of adventure, and a known risk taker! In April, 2021 she retired and is headed on to new adventures! Staff recall Molly as someone who has the ability to get people out of their comfort zones, in connecting people to history and the natural world, and whose boundless enthusiasm can capture an audience of participants, coworkers, and professionals alike. Molly is the holder of many awards: NAI Region 6 Fellow/Lifetime Achievement Award & Master Frontline Interpreter Award; she has been JCPRD’s Employee of the Year, twice; won quarterly awards and Best Workshop Presentation at NAI regional conventions three times! We wish Molly the most adventurous retirement ever as she heads out on solo trips, to national parks and family visits with her husband, and in summiting Mount Kilimanjaro! Happy adventures Molly!
