Our Next Speaker

Shelly Barrick Parsons, Exec Director, Capital Trees LLC; “"Cultivating Vibrant Public Greenspaces in RVA"

Shelly Barrick Parsons is the Executive Director of Capital Trees, where she leads with a deep commitment to the relationship between people and the natural environment.

A graduate of Meredith College and Union Presbyterian Seminary (MACE, MDiv, PhD), Shelly has guided ministries and nonprofits, including serving as founding Executive Director of the Harless Center, a public-private partnership that built community-focused student housing.

She brings experience in growing and sustaining organizations, with an understanding of success that values both return on investment and the transformation of individuals and communities. Drawn to Capital Trees through her own love of being outside to reflect and connect, she knows firsthand the role public green spaces play in renewal, well-being, stewardship, and belonging.