Culpeper Battlefields State Park announces new Volunteer Coordinator

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 10, 2026
Contact: Kim Wells, PR & Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov 

Culpeper Battlefields State Park announces new Volunteer Coordinator

RAPIDAN, Va. – Culpeper Battlefields State Park welcomes its very first Volunteer Coordinator, Samantha Focazio, who brings robust customer service experience from helping open The Bear and The Blade in downtown Culpeper alongside her father. 

Focazio holds a bachelor’s degree in historic preservation and brings a strong foundation in the care and interpretation of cultural resources. During her internship at James Madison’s Montpelier, she gained hands-on experience in research, interpretation and stewardship of historic sites, deepening her understanding of preservation practices and public history. 

Beyond her academic and professional work, Focazio has demonstrated a commitment to community engagement through volunteer service at the Culpeper History Museum and A.G. Richardson Elementary School, where she strengthened her communication skills and fostered connections that promote local history education. Her combined expertise and passion for heritage make her a valuable advocate for preserving and sharing the stories that shape our local communities.

“I am excited to share the story of the new state park and get surrounding communities energized about everything it has to offer,” said Focazio. “I look forward to welcoming new volunteers, building strong community partnerships and creating meaningful engagement that helps the park thrive. I plan to keep our volunteers at the heart of the visitor experience and continue to help create a memorable experience for every guest.”

Volunteers are essential to all Virginia State Parks, but especially to Cedar Mountain Battlefield Park, which was previously entirely run by volunteers before DCR took over property ownership.
“In addition to their impressive conservation and interpretive efforts, the community that worked tirelessly to establish this park remains deeply engaged in its success,” said Culpeper State Park Manager Drew Gruber. “Introducing a Volunteer Coordinator role not only honors their dedication but also ensures they continue to be the heart and soul of the Park.”

“Volunteer Coordinators are the essential connection between volunteer’s and our agencies mission,” said Culpeper Battlefields General Administrative Supervisor Marti Kluxen. “They ensure our volunteers are effectively utilized to achieve our organizations goals, assure our member’s feel valued and create positive experiences that drive engagement and supports programs. I’m excited to work with Samantha and our various valuable volunteer groups to continue bringing education and recreation to the community.”

Culpeper Battlefields State Park is still being developed, and land acquisitions are planned to take place between 2024 and 2027. Visit the park’s website for more information.
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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.