Friends of Des Moines Parks has named Sarah Lohmeier as the organization’s first executive director. The nonprofit is devoted to the preservation, protection, improvement and promotion of Des Moines’ parks, greenways and recreational programs. Lohmeier has most recently held board leadership positions, including president and chair, with the Friends of Des Moines Parks as well as the Iowa Environmental Council and is a current member of the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Board. “The hiring of Lohmeier as our first executive director was a natural fit for our organization that has seen significant growth under 100% volunteer-lead operations,” said Rex Coble, the organization’s president. “This new role will be instrumental in continuing the trend and allowing the Friends to advocate even more for our parks and trails.”