Staff Reports news@times-journal.com
ATLANTA – The National Park Service (NPS) announced the selection of Steve Theus as the new superintendent for Little River Canyon National Preserve and Russell Cave National Monument in Alabama, effective May 5.
“Steve’s journey from Georgia’s Cumberland Island to the southern edge of the nation’s Cumberland Plateau is sure to bring new opportunities and perspectives to the preserve and national monument,” said Mark Foust, NPS South Atlantic-Gulf Regional Director.
“His experience protecting treasured cultural and natural resources and forging important relationships with gateway communities will help position Steve for success as superintendent.”
The 31-year NPS veteran began his career as a Youth Conservation Corp (YCC) crew leader at Jimmy Carter National Historic Site and was soon accepted as a co-op student there and at Andersonville National Historic Site.
Upon earning a Bachelor of Science degree in history from Georgia Southwestern State University, Theus became an interpretive park ranger in the Florida district of Gulf Islands National Seashore.
He then returned to Jimmy Carter National Historic Site as an interpretive park ranger, later serving as Chief of Interpretation and acting superintendent. In 2015, Theus relocated to coastal Georgia, as he advanced to site manager of Fort Frederica National Monument and eventually deputy superintendent responsible for, both, Fort Frederica National Monument and Cumberland Island National Seashore.
“I am humbled and honored to serve as the next superintendent of Little River Canyon National Preserve and Russell Cave National Monument,” Theus said.
“I believe the natural resources and rich cultural history of both parks are a true treasure in the Southern Appalachians. I look forward to working with and serving the visitors, park staff, volunteers and park partners as we continue to protect and enjoy these remarkable resources.”
Theus and his wife, Samantha, have a son, Knox, who resides in San Antonio with his wife, Gabrielle; a daughter, Isabella, currently a student at Georgia College and State University; and two furry family members, Saylor and Basil. They enjoy being outdoors and trying new foods and adventures.
