A passion for Appalachian culture and love of the community made the state’s choice rather easy for selecting a new leader for at Roan Mountain State Park.

Officials with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) confirmed Wednesday afternoon that ranger Meg Guy accepted the position of park manager at Roan Mountain on Tuesday, Feb. 13. The managerial experience is nothing out of the ordinary for Guy, who has served in the interim as manager since November following the resignation of J.R. Tinch. Tinch accepted a position with Tennessee State Parks as an assistant chief ranger.

Keeping continuity at a park that has seen its fair share of successes was vital in the selection process according to TDEC Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Conservation Brock Hill.

“Meg Guy possesses a passion for Appalachian culture and the natural elements of the land that shape that culture,” he said. “We feel she is a perfect choice for Roan Mountain State Park.”

Guy is originally from Polk County, Tennessee, but has lived and worked in Roan Mountain State Park for the last seven years. The new manager officially started at the park in 2011 as a seasonal ranger. Since that time, Guy has served in a versatile position, helping spearhead a variety of events like the Diamond Dash Race, Girls Outdoor Workshop and Fourth of July activities.

While already having a bachelor’s degree in Soil/Environmental Sciences from the University of Tennessee –Knoxville, Guy is also working on a master’s degree in Appalachian Studies from East Tennessee State University.

According to TDEC, a “meet the manager” event will be announced in the coming days to formally announce Guy as park manager and introduce her to the public.

For the park itself, activities start getting underway during the end of March with a spring cleanup – March 24 – and Easter Egg hunt – March 31.

Individuals looking to learn more about upcoming events at the park are encouraged to visit the park’s website or Facebook page.