Melissa McKnight has been tapped as the new Director of Partnerships for the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. She brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge in philanthropy which includes new community grants programs and working closely with nonprofit partners on capacity building issues.

McNight is the former Director of Grants and Partnerships for the Anacostia Waterfront Corporation (AWC). In this capacity she managed the philanthropic portfolio for AWC and worked extensively with nonprofits across the District of Columbia. McKnight also has a strong background in forging relationships with local and federal governments.  Prior to joining AWC, McKnight was a research assistant and staff director for former Mayor of Indianapolis Stephen Goldsmith. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science/public policy from George Washington University.

“She is the natural choice to continue our aggressive effort to foster and develop our public-private partnerships to provide better, services and programs for the residents of the District of Columbia,” said Clark Ray, Acting Director of DPR.