Joe Cunningham Named Executive Director of Brightside St. Louis

Since 1982, Brightside St. Louis has helped make our region cleaner, greener, and more environmentally sustainable.

September 1, 2026 | 2 min reading time


Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry, Greg Hayes, has named Joe Cunningham as the new Executive Director of Brightside St. Louis. Joe brings to the role a commitment to sustainability practices, environmental protection, and recycling education.  He becomes just the third Executive Director of Brightside St. Louis since its founding in 1982.

Joe Cunningham Executive Director Brightside St. Louis

Mary Lou Green who served as the organization’s Executive Director since 1990 recently retired after 36 years. During her tenure, Mary Lou led the growth of Brightside St. Louis to its current service delivery which includes graffiti eradication, neighborhood clean ups, recycling outreach and education, a demonstration garden, sustainable landscaping program, and pollinator conservation.

“Thanks to Mary Lou’s extensive experience and the network of Brightside partners she built across the region, the organization has an incredibly strong foundation,” said Greg Hayes, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry. “Under Joe Cunningham’s leadership, the organization has an exciting new chapter ahead. Joe offers the organization a keen understanding of engaging local communities on behalf of our natural assets and is committed to Brightside’s mission.”

Joe joined Brightside St. Louis as a Program Manager in 2025. His responsibilities have included raising public awareness of Brightside’s programs and events and directing the recycling education program for Saint Louis City Recycles. Joe earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Maryville University and a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Management from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

“I’m honored to be entrusted with this role at Brightside St. Louis, which has made such a meaningful impact on improving the lives of City residents for more than 40 years,” said Joe. “I look forward to working with neighbors across the region to build on what has been accomplished and to continue to work toward new and innovative ways to fulfill our mission.”
 

Related Stories

  1. Dr. Faisal Khan Named St. Louis City Health Director Jul 30, 2026: Renowned public health expert brings over 25 years of public health leadership to the City
  2. Department of Public Safety Recognizes Eight Outstanding Employees at Awards Ceremony Jul 28, 2026: Dedicated Public Servant Awards recognize employees whose exceptional service, leadership, and commitment strengthen the department
  3. Roger Berry - Unsung Hero of St. Louis Softball Jul 28, 2026: Roger Berry is a dedicated, 47-year veteran of the Parks Division.

Related Services

  1. Rent the Jewel Box The Jewel Box in Forest Park is available to rent for weddings, receptions and more.
  2. Deferred Compensation Plan The deferred compensation plan (457) is a retirement savings plan available to eligible City employees and administered by Empower, a financial services company.
  3. Rent the World's Fair Pavilion Rental information for the World's Fair Pavilion in Forest Park
  4. Reserve a Wagon for Urban Hayrides in Forest Park The City of St. Louis Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry offers hayrides in Forest Park on Friday and Saturday nights on fall weekends.
  5. Enroll in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program The federal government offers the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to employees of government organizations to offer them relief from the burden of long-term compound interest and fees.

Help Us Improve This Page

Did you notice an error? Is there information that you expected to find on this page, but didn't? Let us know below, and we'll work on it.

Was this page helpful?



Comments are helpful!
500 character limit

Feedback is anonymous.