Meet the new Communications Associate for Mississippi Park Connection

Lee Vue, Communications Associate, Mississippi Park Connection

As a creative professional and outdoor enthusiast, I am ecstatic to work for Mississippi Park Connection and contribute to its vision to inspire and engage the community with the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Prior to joining Mississippi Park Connection, I worked for the University of Minnesota School of Public Health’s Student Services Center in recruitment and enrollment. Preceding the U of MN, I lived in New York City and worked at a tele-health startup company, AbleTo, that provides remote therapy and behavioral health services to individuals with chronic conditions.

A huge component of Mississippi Park Connection is to inspire people of all backgrounds to discover, explore, and cherish the Mississippi River. Even though I grew up in Saint Paul, my interaction to the river was limited to driving on bridges and admiring it from afar at the University of Minnesota, where I attended college. In 2013, I discovered the river when a group of young adults and I undertook a grand adventure on the Mississippi River. From the headwaters to the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans, we spent 70+ days paddling the Mississippi River and navigating through the different landscapes, people, and history. That experience redefined my interaction with the river and created a connection that continues to impact my life, specifically the direction of my career.

It’s important to recognize the privilege we have where a National Park is practically in our backyards – within walking, driving, and biking distance of our homes. From my own personal experience and observance, I am committed to making the outdoors accessible and inclusive for all.

My work at Mississippi Park Connection will comprise of social media management, digital communication coordination, and print and digital marketing collateral creation and publication. As a photographer and designer, I look forward to implementing new and creative ideas. Most importantly, I’m eager to spark people’s discovery of the river and in turn, create a ripple effect that will shape future river stewards and advocates.