We’re spotlighting our team — the people who show up every day to make Brooklyn Bridge Park the special place that it is. Today, we highlight Elliot Hass of the Park’s education department.
Q: Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself?
A: I’m the Education Coordinator here at Brooklyn Bridge Park. I handle a lot of our education team’s administrative and logistical work.
I’m involved in the more structural and strategic side of our programming—figuring out how we promote education programs, what our capacity is, and testing new approaches to serve as many people as possible. I also work with our Volunteer Manager, Bronwen, to determine volunteer needs for public and community science programs. I’ve helped redesign our volunteer training and write a monthly education volunteer newsletter sharing updates and themes.
On the administrative side, I handle all the department’s finances, help manage the budget, and do purchasing. I also get to spend time in the field—working shifts at Open Hours, supporting school programs, and helping out with early childhood and community science programming. It’s a nice balance between back-end planning and being present with the community. I have a background in environmental studies, so getting to be part of making environmental education happen is really rewarding for me.
Q: What made you want to work at Brooklyn Bridge Park?
A: I love the Park– It’s such a beautiful space. I’m passionate about environmental education and fostering a sense of place and stewardship, both for young people and adults
Working somewhere like Brooklyn Bridge Park means I get to be part of a team that’s excited about the same things I am. We’ll have whole conversations about what’s going on in the fish tank or identify a random insect together; it’s just a joyful, curious group. Plus, I get to enjoy the Park myself—whether that’s lunch outside or a moment by the East River. It’s a bonus to work in a place that naturally brings people joy.
Q: What’s something you wish more people knew about the Park?
A: People always ask us, “How dirty is the East River?” especially since so much of our programming focuses on marine ecology. I wish more people knew how full of life the river really is. We’ve found seahorses right here!
Through our community science programs and education center, we try to show people that the river isn’t a lost cause. Many people are working to improve it, and there are many ways to get involved in protecting and learning about this incredible ecosystem.
Q: Do you have a favorite part of the Park?
A: The flower fields on Pier 6 are a classic favorite. It’s just such a peaceful, beautiful spot. I also really love Pier 3 and the beach. There’s so much to explore.
Q: Is there a project you’re particularly proud of?
A: I’m really proud of the work we’ve done to improve communications with teachers booking school trips. We overhauled our booking platform to make things more intuitive and customizable for teachers, which has made their experience smoother and my job easier. It might not sound exciting, but it was a satisfying problem to solve.
I’m also proud of the community science programs and being a small part of our intern program. Seeing interns grow more comfortable and confident in the space is always really rewarding.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in a public park?
A: Take the opportunities that are available—even if they’re seasonal or part-time. I started with a seasonal role at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which helped me build the skills and experience I have now.
Q: Do you have a favorite animal or plant in the Park?
A: Absolutely! Dottie, the turtle in our Education Center. She has such a big personality and brings so much joy to staff and visitors. She’s like a little movie star. People come specifically to see her. It’s such a special way to connect people with local wildlife, and she’s a protected species native to the area. It’s also really sweet to see kids light up when they meet her and learn more about turtles and our river ecosystem.
