When Edna was approached by a long-serving board member about joining the Cincinnati Parks Foundation Board, she was already in the process of moving from Mason to Cincinnati. “I’ve always admired Cincinnati Parks,” she explains. “Parks are places where neighbors meet, families connect and community comes together. I always strive to make Cincinnati a better place and build community. Joining the board felt like the right way to support the city I love.”
Edna has become a beloved presence across the Foundation—generous with her time and her passion for people. Whether co-chairing the Hats Off Luncheon in 2024 or regularly joining the obLITTERators park cleanup crew, she leads with both vision and action. “Parks should be green, welcoming and cared for. I’ve been out there cleaning the parks. Anyone can come and help–when we all pitch in, you can feel the difference immediately.”
Gaining a Deeper Perspective
Serving on the Cincinnati Parks Foundation Board of Directors has given Edna a new appreciation for all the work that goes on behind the scenes. “Seeing all the amazing things being done, the partnerships—there’s so much that goes into it,” she says. “Now that I know what’s going on at a deeper level, I’m more invested.”
Edna is deeply passionate about the mission of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation and brings that energy to every project she supports. From conservation efforts to community events, she’s proud to be part of it all—but the Sawyer Point Roller Skating Rink holds a special place in her heart. “I’ve been personally involved with that initiative, and it’s exciting to see it coming to life.”
A Legacy of Service
Edna’s community spirit stretches beyond parks. She has supported the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Montgomery Community Church, The Links, Inc., and helped launch the Ambassador Program at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
And in 2024, she co-chaired the 18th Hats Off Luncheon—our biggest fundraiser of the year. “It was a big deal,” she says with a smile. “I used to work in fundraising, so I know what goes into making an event successful—and this one truly was. It was such a great experience working with the other co-chairs, volunteers and staff. The energy, the turnout and seeing the parks represented so beautifully made me incredibly proud to be part of it.”
Cathy Crain, Carrie Hayden and Edna Keown
What Makes a Great Board Member?
“They should be passionate about the parks—about outdoor spaces, nature and community,” Edna says. “And they should be ready to support the parks in whatever way they can—yes, financially, but also by sharing their time, talents and energy. Stay connected, stay involved.”
For Edna, being on the board has been incredibly meaningful. “Parks are part of every neighborhood. They bring people together, improve quality of life and help make Cincinnati one of the most livable cities in the country,” she says. “And the people are wonderful. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know everyone and working together on something that matters.”
Looking Ahead
With an eye to the future, Edna hopes the Foundation will continue championing sustainability and making every park feel welcoming. “Programs like be.well and Cincinnati Parks & Rec for Wellness in collaboration with Osher Center for Integrative Health at the University of Cincinnati and Cincinnati Recreation Commission show how parks can serve everyone,” she notes.
Picking a favorite park? “It’s so hard to choose. Smale Park has everything in it. And Ault Park is so close to where I live—and it has such stunning views of the city. I love them both for different reasons.”
Her simple advice for everyone: “Support the parks. Support the programs. Keep Cincinnati’s green spaces beautiful and clean. You don’t have to give a lot, just give what you can.”
We’re proud to celebrate Edna’s energy, her hands-on spirit, and everything she brings to Cincinnati Parks and community.