PARK RANGER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Florida Park Service Ranger Association Honors Frank Ofeldt as Park Ranger of the Year

The Florida Park Service Ranger Association proudly announces Frank Ofeldt as the recipient of the 2024 Park Ranger of the Year Award. Frank, a dedicated Park Ranger at Fort Clinch State Park, was recognized for his exceptional contributions to historical interpretation and preservation, elevating Fort Clinch to a premier national site. The award ceremony took place on April 6, 2024, during the Florida Park Service Ranger Association’s 35th Anniversary Annual Meeting at O’Leno State Park. Frank was selected from statewide nominations representing over 1,000 Florida Park Service employees.

Ofeldt excels in living history and historical interpretation. He leads the development of the Historic Weapons curriculum and ensures statewide standards for black powder usage. Frank's role as safety supervisor for the Battle of Olustee event includes meticulous training of volunteers for historical accuracy. His innovative ideas enhance interpretive programs, contributing to increased visitation and revenue. Frank's dedication to studying Fort Clinch's history enriches his leadership and commitment to preserving historical heritage.

Park Manager Heath Alboher, in nominating Ranger Ofeldt, wrote “I am amazed at how easily Frank shares his extensive knowledge using his outstanding interpretive skills. Over his career, Frank has reached more than one million park visitors. His direct contact with new park rangers each year emphasizes the importance of interpretation in the Florida State Parks, so this special interpretation of history continues for many generations.”

Ofeldt was selected for this award from the top awardee in each district. The district awardees include Joe Novetzke - Central Office, Cassia Wagner - District 1, Paige Jones - District 3, Katie Moses – District 4, and Janice Duquesnel - District 5. Each of these finalists is exceptional and deserving of recognition for their Ranger First service. Congratulations to each awardee.

The Park Ranger of the Year Award is hosted by the Florida Park Service Ranger Association and sponsored by Tyler Technologies. This is the third year of the award that recognizes exceptional Florida Park Service employees who exemplify the Ranger First attitude; Service to the land and to the public who use the land and Service Above Self. The judges include a former national park director, several state park service directors, and representatives of partner organizations.

Park Ranger of the Year eligible nominees include all Florida Park Service employees regardless of their official position title. “Park rangers are the heart of Florida’s award-winning state parks, and we want to recognize these exceptional employees who serve every day to make our state parks the very best in the nation,” said Donald Forgione, president of the Ranger Association.

Established in 1989, the Florida Park Service Ranger Association’s mission is to support those who serve Florida State Parks, past and present, by providing financial assistance, cultivating a family atmosphere, and perpetuating a spirit of unity and service. Since 1994, the James A. Cook Humanitarian Relief Fund, a program of the Florida Park Service Ranger Association, has awarded nearly $225,000 to 265 past and present employees experiencing financial hardship. The Florida Park Ranger Association is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.