Susan Trautman
GREAT RIVERS GREENWAY
Website: greatriversgreenway.org
Industry: parks and recreation
Education: bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation administration, University of Missouri-Columbia; Master of Public Administration, University of Missouri-Columbia
Family: husband and two children, ages 18 and 21
What is your mission?
My personal mission has always been to improve the quality of life in St. Louis by providing great parks and open-space experiences. This happens to mirror the mission of the Great Rivers Greenway District – we are the regional park district working to build a 600-mile interconnected system of greenways, parks and trails.
What was your first job?
I worked as a planner with the Missouri State Parks department, administering a federal grant program – the Land and Water Conservation Fund. It allowed me to travel all over the state and work with parks directors across Missouri.
What led you to your industry?
The summer I worked as a camp counselor for the Bridgeton parks and recreation department. I was 14 years old, and I have never looked back since! (And yes, I do get compared to Leslie Knope from NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” – I take it as a compliment.)
What was the smartest thing your company did in the past year?
We had an organizational realignment in response to the tremendous growth we’ve experienced. Our entire team took a strategic look at the roles we need moving forward so that we can continue to excel at what we do.
Who is your industry role model?
We look to progressive cities that understand how important parks and open space are for creating a better quality of life – Minneapolis, New York and Chicago, to name a few.
How do you try to differentiate your business from others in your industry?
As a government organization we are very unique. Everything we do is in partnership with other organizations. This requires a dedication to good relationships, accountability and transparency.
What’s the hottest trend in your industry, and are you going to jump on board?
The growing recognition of how an active outdoor lifestyle is linked to better mental and physical health. I am proud to say that Great Rivers Greenway has been recognized nationally for our work as a leader in connecting communities to a better lifestyle. It’s one of the cornerstones for building the greenway system for our region.
What best advice would you share with new entrepreneurs?
Understand that quality relationships, in all parts of work and home life, are critical to success.
What’s your favorite place in St. Louis?
Wow, that is hard. I love all of our outdoor spaces, but right now watching the redevelopment of the riverfront project as part of the CityArchRiver initiative makes me especially proud.
What book is on your nightstand?
“The Boys in the Boat.”
What has made you successful in your industry and in St. Louis?
I will do whatever it takes to get a project done; I am relentless in moving forward.
Submitted 9 years 118 days ago