Who we are:
The Friends of Patapsco Valley State Park is comprised of an all-volunteer Board of Directors (BOD) that represents the diverse users of the park. The BOD works to increase accessibility and inclusivity at Maryland’s first State Park.
These folks contribute their expertise, time, and energy to make PVSP a park for all users.
Dave Ferraro – Executive Director
Dave brings more than 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, with a background in fundraising and program management for environmental organizations, museums, and cultural institutions. He serves on several nonprofit and State of Maryland boards and is a resident curator with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
An avid hiker, mountain biker, landscape painter, paddler, and all-around outdoor enthusiast, Dave lives in the Patapsco Valley—so don’t be surprised if you see him out on the trails. You can reach Dave by email. – Director@fpvsp.org
Korey Hopkins – Director of Media and Communication
Korey Hopkins has been running around the valley capturing what goes on for the last five years. With his other work writing about various outdoor experiences, we figured we’d just unleash him here to do all things media. In his spare time, you’ll probably find Korey on a mountain bike in the valley. You can email him here – media@fpvsp.org
Monica Reisse – Outreach and Partnerships Coordinator
Monica is a director and manager whose leadership is grounded in balance, resilience, and connection to the outdoors. An avid mountain biker, coach, and massage therapist, she spends much of her time in Patapsco Valley State Park, where the trails shape both her perspective and her practice. Deeply committed to stewardship and protecting natural spaces, Monica believes in responsible recreation, community engagement, and caring for the land that supports movement, recovery, and growth. Her work—both professional and personal—is guided by a respect for nature and a dedication to helping people thrive within it.
Monica can be reached at outreach@fpvsp.opg
Joe Hohn – Director of Trail Stewardship
Joe Hohn recently retired after dedicating 35 years to outdoor retail, working with the industry leader REI. Throughout his career, Joe developed a deep appreciation for outdoor activities and has continued to enjoy the natural beauty of the Valley by hiking and riding in the park. For the past 15 years, Joe has been an active volunteer, contributing to trail maintenance and improvement efforts in the park.
Joe is actively involved in supporting various activities at Howard High School, including the Howard Lions Cycling Club and the marching band. Joe’s passion for music extends beyond the school environment. He performs with the Columbia Concert Band and currently serves as the Board President of Columbia Bands Inc. You can email him here – trails@fpvsp.org
Anna Boyd – Events and Programs Coordinator
Anna Boyd is a 2024 graduate of the University of Maryland with a degree in Plant Science and a minor in Entrepreneurial Leadership. She previously served at the National Park Service’s Fort McHenry through the Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps, where she led the green team and supported sustainable park operations. Anna is a fiber artist with a love for clothing production and design, which inspired her to launch sewing workshops with the Fort McHenry Guard, teaching participants how to make and mend their own uniforms. She also teaches sewing and knitting through Howard County Recreation and Parks.
Anna has been connected to the Valley her entire life, you may spot her hiking or trail running, and crocheting, knitting, or sewing whenever her hands are free.
You can reach Anna at programs@fpvsp.org
Our Board of Directors
Bruce Clopein – President and Manager of Adaptive Programs
Board member Bruce Clopein grew up next to Patapsco Valley State Park and considers it his oldest friend. A passionate kayaker, camper, and hiker, Bruce has been recognized for his leadership in advancing inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor spaces. He champions adaptive and inclusive programming as part of the Friends’ ongoing vision to make Patapsco a park for all.
Helen Yuen – Vice President
Helen is a nonprofit professional with experience supporting organizations such as the American Visionary Art Museum, UNESCO, and Senator Ted Kennedy in marketing and communications. She is equally passionate about the outdoors, enjoying hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding, and she considers the Daniels Area of Patapsco Valley State Park one of Maryland’s best staycations.
Chanelle Wimbish – Secretary
Growing up on the shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Chanelle Wimbish has always loved the water and the outdoors. In August 2021, she discovered the Adaptive Programs at Patapsco Valley State Park as a person with a disability and has since participated in biking, hiking, and kayaking, with kayaking being her favorite. Before joining FPVSP, Chanelle was involved in a variety of adaptive sports, including competitive swimming, skiing, water skiing, mountain biking, hand cycling, kayaking, rowing, and scuba diving. She brings a valuable disability perspective to the group, helping to make Adaptive Programming accessible to all interested participants..
Harry Slade
Growing up less than a mile from the Daniels area of Patapsco Valley State Park, Harry developed a lifelong passion for fishing, especially for rainbow trout below the dam. An avid angler, he is dedicated to making fishing and other park activities accessible to everyone. He also enjoys canoeing and hiking and has helped connect regional fishing organizations to PVSP. Harry’s “day job” brings the expertise that supports the long-term sustainability and stewardship of the park.
Janine Grossman
Janine Grossman is an avid hiker and a leadership member of the Mountain Club of Maryland. As a certified Master Gardener, she is actively involved with numerous organizations throughout the Patapsco Valley. You’re likely to spot her on the trails—in the park and beyond!
Paul Chung
Paul is a real estate professional deeply involved in the Maryland community. An enthusiastic sports lover, he enjoys everything from biking and running to swimming and triathlons. In addition to his real estate work, Paul is passionate about environmental conservation, especially in the Patapsco area. He actively works to involve both the Korean community and other diverse groups in local conservation efforts, encouraging everyone to come together to protect and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Eric Ebersole
Eric Ebersole is a Maryland State Legislator representing District 12, which includes a large portion of Patapsco Valley State Park. He lives in Catonsville, a community neighboring the park. A former public school teacher for 35 years in Howard County, Eric values the educational opportunities the park provides. Reflecting on his connection to Patapsco, he says, “I love Patapsco Valley State Park because it is so close to my community and offers so many different things to do. But mostly I love it for its size and the fact that I can get deep enough into it to feel a sense of wilderness. It is a unique jewel nestled into our urban setting.”
Asia Bright
Asia is passionate about helping Black and Brown women get outside, connect with nature, and build community. She works to break down the barriers that have historically kept marginalized groups out of outdoor spaces, while creating supportive environments where women of color can experience the power of nature. As Executive Director of Black Girls Hike, she’s opening doors for every park user to enjoy the outdoors.
Jennifer Albrecht
Jennifer moved to Howard County in 2000 and found Patapsco Valley State Park one week later! Since then, she’s been hiking and mountain biking in the park. She is grateful for the opportunity to use her grant writing skills to support activities at Patapsco.
Harry Hill
Harry Hill’s 33-year commitment to public service was defined by leadership, dedication, and operational excellence. His journey began with 11 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he ascended to the role of an elite aircrew member for the final four years of his service. He then spent the majority of his subsequent 22 years as a federal civilian Operations Manager, overseeing a vital international development office.
Now in retirement, Harry channels his passion and organizational skills into community building. As an avid mountain biker, he founded Minority Mountain Bikers (MMB) in 2021 and acquired his PMBIA level one instructor certification. MMB is a fulfilling initiative focused on increasing the representation of Black and Brown people on mountain bike trails, celebrating their accomplishments, and organizing adventurous rides across the country and the globe.
Harry is a loving husband to Kia of seven years and a dedicated father to Darien.
Meaghan McDermott
Patapsco Valley State Park has been Meaghan McDermott’s backyard for much of her life. She grew up in Granite, Maryland and first rode her pony through the trails to the Woodstock Inn for lunch in elementary school. Meaghan is on the board of Trail Riders of Today, which supports equestrian trail use statewide, and is a member of the League of Maryland Horsemen, an equine club and campground within Patapsco. She is also an avid hiker and occasional paddle boarder. Professionally, Meaghan is a public interest lawyer.