Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority Announces New Executive Director

The Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority (HTRFA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dana Creech Youst as its executive director, effective Monday, Aug. 18, 2025.

Youst, who currently serves as the director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Kenly, North Carolina, was selected following a nationwide recruitment and selection process.

With more than 20 years of government experience, Youst began her government career with the City of Raleigh, North Carolina. In Raleigh, she served as the Program Specialist in Specialized Recreation Services; Teen Program Director; Coordinator for the Raleigh Sports Consortium, Raleigh’s partnership with the North Carolina High School Athletic Association; and Community Oriented Government Coordinator. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Recreation Leisure Studies from East Carolina University and has been in her current role with the Town of Kenly since March 2023.

“Dana’s impressive background in parks and recreation, along with her commitment to community engagement, will be invaluable as we strive to enhance the Greater Williamsburg area’s recreational offerings,” said Andrew O. Trivette, the Williamsburg City Manager and HTRFA’s chair. “We are confident her leadership will drive us toward achieving our vision of becoming a premier destination for recreation.”

As the HTRFA Executive Director, Youst will manage the Authority’s daily operations and work to enhance Greater Williamsburg’s appeal as a premier recreational destination. She will act as the liaison between the HTRFA Board, its contractors, and Parks & Recreation staff of the Authority’s three jurisdictions – the City of Williamsburg, James City County, and York County. The HTRFA Executive Director is a part-time position.

“This role aligns perfectly with my passion for leveraging recreational programming to drive tourism, stimulate economic growth, and create inclusive opportunities for all,” Youst said. “I am excited to work with the City of Williamsburg, James City County, and York County to improve and expand the recreational landscape of Greater Williamsburg.”