Shea Lewis named director of Arkansas State Parks

Shea Lewis was named Monday (Jan. 3) as the new director of Arkansas State Parks. He replaces Grady Spann, who retired at the end of December.

“Shea Lewis has a proven track record of accomplishment within Arkansas State Parks,” said Gov. Asa Hutchinson. “Our parks system offers not only the outdoor recreation that The Natural State is so well known for, but it also protects and showcases our state’s history and heritage. These resources couldn’t be left in better hands, and I know Shea will continue the legacy of his predecessors Grady Spann, Greg Butts and Richard Davies.”

Lewis began in the role on Jan. 3 at a salary of $120,002.

Lewis brings 24 years of experience with Arkansas State Parks, both in day-to-day operations and in executive leadership roles. He currently serves as deputy director, a position he has held since 2017.

Lewis started his career with ASP as a seasonal interpreter at both Millwood State Park and Village Creek State Park before becoming a full-time interpreter at both Toltec Mounds Archeological State Park and Crowley’s Ridge State Park. He was promoted to superintendent at Parkin Archeological State Park in 2004 and then served as a regional supervisor for eight years.

“Shea is a hard worker and a thoughtful leader,” said Stacy Hurst, Secretary of Arkansas Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “Because he has served at multiple levels within Arkansas State Parks, he is fully familiar with the complex operation of our system. I know that he will hit the ground running, and I look forward to his contributions that will make our wonderful state parks even better.”

Lewis received a bachelor’s degree in parks, recreation and leisure studies from the University of Memphis and a master’s degree in education/instructional resources and media design from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

“Arkansas State Parks has a great tradition of protecting and managing the resources entrusted to us, as well as offering memorable experiences,” Lewis said. “It is my goal to continue that tradition while implementing innovative ways to guarantee relevancy for the next generation of park guests.”

The Arkansas State Parks director is responsible for leading the operation of 52 state parks and a central office including administration, planning and development, marketing and revenue, program services and five regional offices. Additionally, the director oversees the $158 million annual budget appropriated for the division’s responsibilities.