Jennifer Onufer Selected as Superintendent of Voyageurs National Park

News Release Date: October 2, 2026

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. - The National Park Service today announced the selection of Jennifer Onufer as its next superintendent of Voyageurs National Park. Onufer will begin her new role this fall, bringing more than two decades of experience in public service, park operations and resource management across NPS and the Bureau of Reclamation.

Onufer currently serves as park manager at Lake Berryessa in California, as well as acting park manager for New Melones Lake. In these roles, she has strengthened partnerships across federal, county, and local agencies; improved visitor services and public safety programs; and led a successful invasive species prevention effort that became a model for waterbodies throughout the region. She previously served in leadership and supervisory roles at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, Grand Canyon National Park and several other NPS units nationwide.

"Jennifer brings an exceptional blend of leadership experience, operational skill, and commitment to partnerships," said Pete Swisher, acting deputy director for the Midwest Region. "Her record of strengthening communication, improving visitor safety and enhancing resource protection will serve Voyageurs National Park and its communities well as she steps into this role."

Voyageurs National Park, established in 1975, is renowned for its beautiful lakes, rugged forests, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking, as well as exploring the park's rich history tied to early French-Canadian fur traders, known as voyageurs. It offers unique water-based recreation opportunities.

"I am honored to join the team at Voyageurs National Park and look forward to working with staff, partners and the local community to protect the park's unique resources and enhance the visitor experience," said Onufer. "Throughout my career, I've seen the power of collaboration and innovation in preserving our public lands, and I'm excited to bring that spirit to Voyageurs."

Onufer holds a master's degree in resource management from Central Washington University and a bachelor's degree in anthropology from Mercyhurst College. Her career includes extensive experience in interpretation, visitor services, resource protection, public affairs and team development.

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