A Wyoming native, Anzelmo-Sarles holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies with an emphasis in public relations and journalism and a minor in political science from the University of Lynchburg in Virginia. Photo: NPS

JACKSON, Wyo. — One-time Jackson local Jenny Anzelmo-Sarles has been selected as the chief of public affairs and chief spokesperson for the National Park Service.

Anzelmo-Sarles follows in the footsteps of her mother, Joan Anzelmo, who enjoyed an illustrious career with the Natrional Park Service in various roles. Anzelmo-Sarles served as spokesperson for the Grand Teton NP briefly in addition to a wide range of duties both in government service and the private sector.

Anzelmo-Sarles returns to the NPS from strategic communications firm RUBENSTEIN, where she was a vice president. Previously, Anzelmo-Sarles served 10 years as a spokesperson for the NPS in Washington, D.C., the San Francisco Bay Area and at Grand Teton National Park. Before joining the NPS, she held various roles at NBC News and on Capitol Hill.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Jenny back to the National Park Service. She brings strong skills that will be invaluable to the NPS team, reporters and the American people,” said NPS deputy director of operations Shawn Benge. “Jenny’s experience, intellectual curiosity and commitment to public service make her ideal for this influential and important role.”

Anzelmo-Sarles will serve as the service’s senior national spokesperson and oversee the development, implementation, and management of national communication strategies while providing guidance to NPS leadership and communications staff at America’s 419 national parks and dozens of community-based programs.

“From protecting our nation’s most hallowed grounds and stunning landscapes to preserving places associated with our most defining historical moments, the National Park Service has a special place in American life. I’m incredibly honored to return to the NPS and look forward to helping connect all Americans with their national parks,” Anzelmo-Sarles said.

A Wyoming native, Anzelmo-Sarles holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies with an emphasis in public relations and journalism and a minor in political science from the University of Lynchburg in Virginia.

She begins her new role on September 14.