Gilroy Gardens Appoints Two New Board Members

Local residents Heather Crowley and Eric Wasinger join the nonprofit board to support the park's mission.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Theme Parks

Bold vector editorial illustration of a stylized topiary garden, representing community growth and botanical conservation in Gilroy. — Gilroy Gardens has appointed community leaders Heather Crowley and Eric Wasinger to its Board of Directors to bolster the park's mission. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Gilroy Gardens has officially added Heather Crowley and Eric Wasinger to its Board of Directors. The new appointees will help guide the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and its educational mission.

Why it matters

The board additions are intended to strengthen the park's community outreach and ensure its long-term viability in Gilroy. Both members bring extensive local experience to support the park's ongoing development.

Eric Wasinger joins the board after 34 years of residency in Gilroy, while Heather Crowley has been a member of the community since 2020.

The players

Heather Crowley

She is a local community member who previously served as PTG President and Gala Chair for St. Catherine School.

Eric Wasinger

He is a long-term Gilroy resident of 34 years who aims to ensure the park remains a vibrant community asset.

Gilroy Gardens

This is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Gilroy, California, that operates with an educational mission.

The details

The new directors intend to utilize their experience in community-building and fundraising to advance the park's goals. Crowley previously served as PTG President and Gala Chair for St. Catherine School.

Heather Crowley moved to Gilroy in 2020.
Eric Wasinger has been a resident of Gilroy for 34 years.
Crowley and Wasinger officially joined the board in October 2026.

Travel Outlook

The appointment follows standard corporate oversight guidelines set by the IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit governance standards for tax-exempt organizations. This move reinforces the park's local leadership structure, contrasting with larger commercial theme park chains managed by national parent corporations.

Residents should anticipate that these new board appointments may lead to refreshed community programming and educational events at the park. Visitors can keep an eye on official announcements to see how the new leadership influences future park activities and seasonal offerings.

The takeaway

Nonprofit organizations often rely on the deep connections of local board members to maintain community support. Engaging with local boards provides residents with a direct path to influence the educational and recreational offerings in their neighborhood.