Fort Monroe Authority Announces Scott D. Martin as New Chief Executive Officer

The Fort Monroe Authority (FMA) is pleased to announce Scott D. Martin as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a national search. Martin will assume his new role in January 2025.

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The Fort Monroe Authority (FMA) is pleased to announce Scott D. Martin as its new Chief Executive Officer, following a national search. (Photo: Business Wire)

Martin brings over 20 years of leadership experience, having worked on some of the nation’s most ambitious urban park projects. He currently serves as Administrator of Chattanooga Parks & Outdoors, where he has overseen transformative initiatives to enhance public spaces and outdoor recreation.

“Fort Monroe is a national treasure, and Scott’s expertise in economic development and historic preservation will help us build on its strengths,” said Caren Merrick, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. “We look forward to his leadership in creating a vibrant future for this exceptional site.”

Dr. Rex Ellis, Chair of the FMA Board of Trustees, added, “Scott has the vision, skills, and experience to elevate Fort Monroe to new heights. We are thrilled to welcome him and look forward to his impact.”

During his tenure in Chattanooga, Martin led the city’s first Comprehensive Parks & Outdoors Plan in over 25 years, engaging more than 5,000 residents in the process. He spearheaded master planning for the city’s largest urban park and the iconic Chattanooga Riverfront, helping secure $8.4 million in philanthropic and public funding for parks and recreation.

“Fort Monroe offers an unparalleled connection to Virginia and our nation’s history,” said Travis Voyles, Virginia Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources. “I am confident Scott will enhance recreation opportunities, preserve its unique landmarks, and expand economic development at this historic site.”

Previously, Martin served as Executive Director of the River Heritage Conservancy in Indiana, where he led efforts to establish a 4,400+ acre urban park system celebrating the historic Falls of the Ohio River. Under his leadership, the nonprofit raised over $15 million for land acquisition and operations, developed a collaborative master park plan, and launched a $27 million donor campaign.

Martin’s experience also includes serving as Parks Director for 21st Century Parks in Louisville, Kentucky, where he helped develop a 4,000-acre nonprofit-run park system. His leadership transformed the project from concept to a thriving destination attracting over three million annual visitors.

Earlier in his career, Martin was the first Director of Franklin County (VA) Commerce & Leisure Services. There, he created the county’s first Parks & Recreation and Tourism Development Plans, secured $4.2 million in grants, and brought $80 million in business investments, generating 600 new jobs.

“Fort Monroe stands at the crossroads of history and opportunity, with thousands of years of human settlement and an unmatched natural setting,” Martin said. “I am honored to join the Fort Monroe Authority team to preserve this incredible landscape and guide its future as a vibrant community and destination.”

Martin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from Boise State University. He is a Fellow of the American Academy for Parks and Recreation Administration, serves as North American Chair for World Urban Parks, and is recognized internationally for his work integrating conservation, recreation, and economic development in urban settings.

About Fort Monroe Authority

The Fort Monroe Authority oversees the stewardship, preservation, and development of Fort Monroe, a National Historic Landmark in Hampton, Virginia. The Authority is dedicated to protecting the site’s rich history while promoting its economic and recreational potential for future generations.

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