The National Park Service has selected Allana Olbrich to serve as the new superintendent of Cedar Breaks National Monument, according to the agency. Olbrich is scheduled to begin her new role on Sept. 20, 2026, following a selection process announced by the agency in late August.
Extensive Park Service Experience
Olbrich arrives at Cedar Breaks with nearly two decades of experience within the National Park Service. According to the National Park Service, her background includes leadership roles spanning administration, park operations, budget management, and facilities management. Most recently, she served as the acting superintendent for both Bryce Canyon National Park and Colorado National Monument.
Intermountain Region Director Bert Frost noted that Olbrich has been building her career within the NPS since 2009. Frost stated that Olbrich has served at six different park sites across four distinct regions, which has provided her with a versatile foundation in both park operations and leadership. Frost added that her commitment to collaboration makes her uniquely prepared to lead the monument into its next chapter.
Diverse Administrative Background
The new superintendent's professional history includes a variety of specialized roles across the country. In addition to her recent acting superintendency, Olbrich has managed facilities at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. She has also held administrative leadership positions at the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and Bryce Canyon National Park.
Furthermore, Olbrich has managed budgets and financial programs at Cape Cod National Seashore. The National Park Service indicated that these diverse experiences, combined with her years of community engagement, have provided her with insight into resource stewardship and the partnership-building required to manage the monument.
Personal Background and Outlook
Olbrich, a native of Tennessee, holds a bachelor's degree from Southern Utah University. She is currently residing in Tropic, Utah, and will relocate to Cedar City to begin her new position alongside her husband, Jesse.
In a statement regarding her appointment, Olbrich expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the monument. She highlighted the area's vibrant cliffs, wildflower meadows, and dark night skies as features that are unique to the location. Olbrich also stated her excitement regarding the prospect of collaborating with the National Park Service staff and local communities dedicated to the park's care.
Timeline for Transition
The transition follows the agency's initial announcement of the selection made in August 2026. Olbrich's formal start date remains set for Sept. 20, 2026.
