New Superintendent Selected for National Recreation Area

David Szymanski has been selected as the new superintendent of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, starting this fall.

Szymanski is replacing Woody Smeck, who recently transferred to Yosemite National Park after serving as the park’s superintendent for 10 years.

“I am very excited about working with our neighbors, partners and park staff in the Santa Monica Mountains. I look forward to joining them in their mission to sustain the mountains and serve all residents of greater Los Angeles and the surrounding areas,” Szymanski said.

Szymanski, who has 19 years of experience working with communities, currently serves as the superintendent of Lewis and Clark National Historical Park.  

Szymanski has served at Everglades National Park, Voyageurs National Park and as a Bevinetto Congressional Fellow, where he spent a year working on the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks. 

“David is an excellent leader, manager and supervisor,” said Pacific West Regional Director Chris Lehnertz. “David excels in maintaining and developing sophisticated partnerships with all entities, which will be instrumental in continuing to shape the future of Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area."