Ann Simonelli

Director of Communications

A native of Pennsylvania, Ann finds inspiration, motivation, and rejuvenation being outdoors. Prior to joining the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in 2023, she worked for The Conservation Fund for more than a decade, cultivating and promoting stories of the nonprofit’s innovative and collaborative solutions to protect treasured lands and waters across the U.S., including key properties along the A.T. An ever-curious writer and media relations expert, Ann enjoys creating narratives that offer pathways for people to learn about our natural world and understand and appreciate its integral connection to our daily lives.

Prior to the Fund, Ann worked in communications for the National Geographic Society, promoting scientific announcements and educational programs, including the National Geographic Bee. She enjoys exploring trails in her home state and has fond memories of hiking in Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park with her husband and two children. Ann has a B.A. in Communications from Susquehanna University.