Greenscape of Jacksonville Names Nicole Kresse as New Executive Director
Lisa Grubba retires after years of dedicated leadership
Jacksonville, FL — Greenscape of Jacksonville, the city’s pioneering urban forestry nonprofit, proudly announces the appointment of Nicole Kresse as its new Executive Director, effective immediately. She succeeds Lisa Grubba, who is retiring after a notable tenure leading the organization through several milestones in tree advocacy, education, and community engagement.
Nicole Kresse brings more than 17 years of nonprofit leadership experience to Greenscape, with a strong record in program expansion, fundraising, and building impactful community partnerships. She is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and brings both strategic vision and a hands-on leadership style to her role.
Prior to joining Greenscape, Kresse managed over $500 million in U.S. foreign assistance through her work with USAID programs. She is a former Peace Corps Volunteer and has held key leadership roles that focused on sustainable development, community engagement, and volunteer-driven programming. Her work has consistently emphasized public-private collaboration, donor and board cultivation, and effective grant management.
Kresse holds an MBA from Texas A&M University and a bachelor’s degree in Business and Spanish from Clemson University. A lifelong advocate for the outdoors, she is passionate about advancing mission-focused work that connects people with nature.
“I’m honored to step into this role and build on Greenscape’s incredible legacy of protecting and enhancing Jacksonville’s tree canopy,” said Kresse. “Lisa Grubba has guided this organization with vision and heart. I look forward to growing Greenscape’s impact alongside our dedicated partners, volunteers, and community.”
Greenscape of Jacksonville has planted more than 350,000 trees since its founding in 1975 and remains a leader in urban tree advocacy, education, and local greening initiatives. Kresse will work with Becky Henson, Greenscape’s Assistant Director, as the organization marks 50 years and launches new efforts to expand its canopy coverage, deepen community partnerships, and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.