I am honored to nominate Justin Unger, for the Edwin O. Stene Award for Managerial Excellence. Throughout his two decades of public service and recent transition to the private sector, Justin has consistently demonstrated innovation, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to advancing stewardship and equity.

Justin began his career with the National Park Service (NPS) in 2005 and quickly rose into key leadership roles, including Chief of Administration for the National Mall and Memorial Parks, Deputy Superintendent of Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks, and ultimately Associate Director for Business Services at NPS headquarters. In that role, Justin oversaw some of the agency’s most complex and visible programs: the Recreation Fee Program (managing more than $300 million annually), Acquisitions and Financial Assistance (totaling over $1.5 billion), and Commercial Services (including nearly 500 concession contracts that generate $1.5 billion annually and support more than 25,000 jobs).

Justin’s leadership was instrumental in modernizing business services across the NPS. He championed policies that increased transparency, improved efficiency, and expanded equitable access to public lands for millions of visitors. His ability to resolve complex organizational challenges, such as balancing financial sustainability with public accessibility, reflects both innovation and courage in leadership.

Now serving as Senior Vice President of Strategy at ExplorUS, a Kansas-based company providing visitor services at nearly 160 park locations, Justin continues to apply his expertise to strengthen organizational systems and elevate the visitor experience nationwide. His career is a testament to the power of innovative management and the lasting impact of strong, values-driven leadership.

For his extraordinary contributions to organizational excellence, commitment to equity, and lifelong dedication to stewardship, I wholeheartedly nominate Justin Unger for this award. He embodies the very spirit of innovation, resilience, and leadership this recognition was created to honor.