Memphis River Parks expands team

Wendy Guzmán | Memphis Business Journal

The Memphis River Parks Partnership (MRPP) has recently added to its team.

The organization announced on Wednesday, April 8, three new hires and one promotion.

“We’ve had great momentum entering this year, and I look forward to all that spring and summer seasons will welcome across our riverfront with this fantastic team on board,” MRPP president and CEO Paul Chandler said in a news release.

New hires at the nonprofit include Hateisha Williamson as director of operations; Kate Hackett as director of development; and Ben Wilkins as manager of programming and engagement.

Williamson joined MRPP in 2021 as director of field operations. She previously spent nearly 20 years with the Memphis Grizzlies in operations and guest services. In her new role, she will oversee MRPP’s day-to-day operations, maintenance, and riverfront park and public space guest experiences.

Hackett has previously worked in advancing several Memphis organizations, including Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, the Memphis Child Advocacy Center, and ALSAC.

Wilkins spent the last seven years working in schools, which is expected to translate well into his new role creating educational programming. In this role, Wilkins will work closely with the director of programming and engagement, Jasmine Coleman.

Internally, Earlicia Boulton was promoted to manager of events. She has been with MRPP for three years as an event coordinator. In her new role, Boulton will spearhead the event planning for the organization. This includes events hosted at the riverfront parks, such as family reunions, festivals, corporate events, and special receptions.

MRPP manages six miles along the Mississippi River, including 26 properties. Chandler was named the org's CEO last May.