After being unanimously selected by The Greenway Foundation’s Board of Directors, Ryan Aids became the Executive Director of The Greenway Foundation on July 1, 2022. Ryan is Greenway’s second Executive Director, succeeding Jeff Shoemaker, who served 40 years in the role.
Ryan says, “It would be impossible to learn all that Jeff Shoemaker has to teach in a thousand lifetimes but I have spent the last 7 and 1/2 years trying to soak up as much as I possibly could. I cannot envision a better mentor than Jeff Shoemaker. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to learn from him during my time at TGF.”
Introducing Ryan Aids
Executive Director
The Greenway Foundation
Ryan joined The Greenway Foundation after working with Verizon Wireless for nine years. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 2006 with a degree in communications. Before his current role at the helm, Ryan led development for Greenway and was responsible for expanding our capabilities and increasing support for the mission. He has a natural way of generating enthusiasm for the work we can accomplish on behalf of the river and our community. Originally from the small town of Rincon, Georgia, Ryan has lived in Colorado since 2006. Along with his wife, Faith, they love exploring Colorado with their two dogs Chip and Maya. Ryan is a huge Georgia Bulldog football fan and always looks forward to the college football season.
From the moment Ryan arrived in Denver he knew he loved this city and he is quick to share his excitement for how The Greenway Foundation allows him to give back. His mom was an elementary school teacher for over 40 years, so Ryan has a longstanding respect and admiration for education. Ryan often talks about Greenway’s role in impacting the future of our city—our youth, providing opportunities for everyone to engage with our river with no barriers. Ryan loves being able to interact with others who love our city and want to make it better.
Ryan’s heart is with The Greenway Foundation’s Mission to Revitalize Rivers and Reconnect Communities. Of his love for the river, Ryan says:
Growing up near the coast in south Georgia I was surrounded by water. Whether it was going to the beach with family and friends, visiting the lake every summer, or fishing and skiing in the Savannah River, I spent a lot of time in and around water. Soon after moving to Denver I realized just how much I missed it and could be quoted saying things like, “Man, if this place had a beach it would have everything!” Turns out it does. Working at The Greenway Foundation lets me see the best in people, in nature, and in our city and they’re all beautiful.
Congratulations, Ryan, from everyone at The Greenway Foundation.
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