Dedham Greenspace Coalition Names Carol Hills Its First Executive Director

Dedham, MA — The natural resources advocacy group Dedham Greenspace Coalition (DGC) is excited to announce the appointment of Carol Hills as its first Executive Director, marking an exciting milestone for the growing community-based organization dedicated to expanding public green spaces and strengthening environmental stewardship across the town of Dedham.

Carol brings an impressive track record in storytelling, civic engagement, and global journalism. A longtime senior producer, co-founder and on-air host of The World — the acclaimed public radio program co-produced by PBS affiliate GBH Boston and PRX — she has spent her career amplifying voices, connecting communities, and bringing complex issues to life with clarity, curiosity, and heart. Her work has taken her across continents, covering everything from international diplomacy to local acts of resilience and creativity. Hills also served for five years on Dedham’s Sustainability and Advisory Committee and represented that group on the Master Plan Implementation Committee.

“Carol’s experience, leadership, and deep commitment to community make her the ideal person to help guide DGC through this pivotal start-up phase,” said the Dedham Greenspace Coalition’s founder Paul Reynolds. “She knows how to build connections, nurture partnerships, and inspire people to take part in something larger than themselves. We’re thrilled to welcome her into this role.”

As Executive Director, Carol will lead strategic planning, community engagement, fundraising, and the development of new initiatives that advance DGC’s mission: to create, protect, and activate accessible green spaces that contribute to a healthier, more vibrant, and more connected Dedham across the town’s neighborhoods.

“I’m honored to join this effort at such an important moment,” said Hills. “Public green spaces bring people together, strengthen neighborhoods, and nourish wellbeing. Dedham is brimming with possibility, and I’m excited to help residents shape a greener, more welcoming future for our town.”

The Dedham Greenspace Coalition is currently focused on community partnerships, early-stage project development, and the creation of additional publicly accessible greenspace designed to improve quality of life for all residents. The Coalition’s work builds on the tremendous efforts of many local groups over the years, including the Town’s Open Space and Recreation planning process, which the Open Space and Recreation Committee captured in a robust 220-page report in 2019. The committee members included Chair Jonathan Briggs, Stephanie Radner, Dennis Cunningham, Michelle Kayserman, Michael Podolski, and Georganna Woods.

Indeed, the 2019 OSRP report highlights the importance of strengthening environmental stewardship in Dedham — not only through conservation and sustainable practices, but by “creating awareness… to empower residents and raise awareness about the open space and natural areas in Dedham.” The OSPR report specifically encouraged the Town to develop outreach programs, foster networks of civic groups, and even create a “Friends of Dedham’s Open Spaces.”

Reynolds observes, “The Greenspace Coalition aims to do just that - serving as “Friends” group to provide ongoing stewardship, share information widely, and inspire residents to take part in caring for and celebrating the town’s invaluable natural assets.”

For more information about the Dedham Greenspace Coalition or to get involved, explore: www.facebook.com/dedhamgreenspace