Randy W. Widera is the Director of Programs at California State Parks Foundation. He brings a deep knowledge of state parks and program development from a 30+ year career focused on connecting Californians with their natural and cultural heritage. After graduating with a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of California, San Diego, Randy began his work in Outdoor and Environmental Education – founding the Web of Life Field (WOLF) School to provide residential environmental and science education programs. He went on to serve as the Executive Director of Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks, where he developed the nationally recognized “That’s My Park” campaign, an outreach program that dramatically built broader support for state parks within the local community and more significant funding for park programs. Later, Randy established Blue Oak Nonprofits, a consulting firm that worked exclusively with nonprofit organizations supporting state parks and environmental education. In 2019, Randy joined California State Parks Foundation to be a part of the dynamic team working for the future of all California state parks. As the Director of Programs, Randy’s many years of experience in park programming and fundraising inform his role in overseeing our four main programs: Climate Resilience, Access & Experiences, Park Stewardship, and Park Excellence. He also oversees major projects such as the Yosemite Slough/Candlestick Point State Recreation Area and Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park restorations.