Rohnke recognized as “Hometown Hero” by tourism peers
Special to The Clinton Courier
Clintonian Angel Rohnke, who serves as deputy administrator of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP), has been recognized as a Visit Jackson Hometown Hero.
The Hometown Hero Awards allow the Jackson, Mississippi hospitality industry to unite and honor their fellow industry team members who have helped boost the tourism industry business in the city.
Rohnke, who also serves as the LeFleur’s Bluff Education and Tourism Complex (LBC) Director, has been instrumental in the planning and execution of new projects at the award-winning LeFleur’s Bluff State Park, such as the multi-million-dollar playground, which has welcomed more than 121,000 visitors since opening in December of 2021, Spotter’s Adventure Trail, The Den, and the newly-begun joint entrance.
“We are proud of the work and leadership Angel has shown in her career at MDWFP. Angel’s leadership and vision has helped move the Museum of Natural Science (MNS) and the LBC in an exciting new direction,” said MDWFP Executive Director Lynn Posey.
Her colleagues say Rohnke’s enthusiasm is contagious, and her passion for her work and the teams she leads is invaluable. Over the years, Rohnke has helped lead the agency’s tourism efforts, culminating with honors such as the MNS being named the “Escape to the Southeast Travel Attraction of the Year” and the “Attraction of the Year” by Visit Mississippi and Visit Jackson. In 2018, the Southeast Tourism Society honored the LeFleur’s Museum District team with their “Shining Example Partnership Award” for cooperative tourism work.
Rohnke brings a wealth of expertise in conservation, education, tourism, and leadership to her work. She directs the MDWFP’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative and serves as the Mississippi Minorities in Natural Resources Conservation representative for the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.
Rohnke started her conservation career in New York. In 2005, she joined the MNS as an educator. She was promoted to education coordinator and assistant director and now serves on MDWFP’s executive staff. Rohnke holds a Master of Professional Studies in environmental interpretation, a B.S. in environmental forest biology, and an A.A.S. in natural resources conservation.
