J.J. Tighe is the director of the Parks and Trails Initiative for the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. Since 2017, he has successfully steered grantmaking strategy, worked to build the capacity of partner organizations, and organized a complex coalition of cross-sector stakeholders and funders to execute community-led park, trail, and green infrastructure projects. Key accomplishments include helping shape the Foundation’s “Centennial Commitment”— a $200 million initiative to close regional trail gaps and build a signature waterfront park in Western New York and Southeast Michigan.
Tighe is a distinguished veteran who served as a Captain in the U.S. Army with the 1st Infantry Division and 1st Cavalry Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Air Medal during his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004. He currently serves on the board of Wins for Warriors.
Tighe earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance from Boston College and his Master of Business Administration at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.