After a transformative period of leadership for Friends and Waterfront Park, President and CEO Joy Shigaki announced today that she will be stepping down from her role later this summer. Her last day will be on July 17, marked by our signature Pier Party at Pier 62.

Shigaki has led the organization since 2022, guiding Friends through the completion of a $170 million capital campaign, and the historic Grand Opening of Seattle’s reimagined 20-acre Waterfront Park—a civic achievement nearly two decades in the making. Her leadership helped shape the nonprofit’s role as a steward, host, and connector of Seattle’s reimagined central waterfront. Under her leadership, Friends expanded public programming, deepened civic and community partnerships, strengthened organizational trust and visibility, and helped build momentum toward the park’s Grand Opening season and beyond.

“Joy has been an extraordinary leader for Friends of Waterfront Park during a pivotal moment in Seattle’s history,” said Dan Kully, co-chair of Friends of Waterfront Park Board of Directors. “Her vision, energy, and commitment to creating a welcoming and community-centered waterfront have helped shape both this organization and the experience of the park itself. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and the lasting impact she has made.”

During Shigaki’s tenure, Friends of Waterfront Park advanced major civic partnerships, expanded cultural and community programming, elevated the organization’s public profile, and continued building a waterfront designed to bring people together across Seattle and the region.

“Leading Friends of Waterfront Park during this significant and dynamic chapter has been an incredible honor,” said Shigaki. “This park represents what is possible when my beloved hometown comes together with ambition, vision, creativity, and care for community. I am proud of what this team, our partners, and supporters have built together, and I cannot wait to see Waterfront Park continue to thrive in the years ahead. I look forward to taking rest and enjoying a Seattle summer.”

With the park now open and the capital campaign complete, Friends enters a new organizational phase: building the programs, partnerships, and operational rhythms that will make Waterfront Park an iconic gathering place for Seattle, and Friends of Waterfront Park a lasting civic institution. Carol Binder, longtime Friends of Waterfront Park Board member and former Executive of Pike Place Market PDA will assist with leadership support during the transition to a permanent leader.

“Waterfront Park has always been powered by collaboration,” said Hewan Teshome, Board co-chair. “Friends is entering its next chapter with a strong foundation, an extraordinary staff, and exciting future plans that expand on our commitment to creating incredible, memorable experiences by the Salish Sea.”

Please join us in celebrating Joy for her extraordinary leadership, care for community, and dedication to helping bring Waterfront Park to life.