Dara on a long run by the water pump station mural on the Olentangy Trail, sponsored by FLOW and Columbus Water & Power. Art: “Full Circle” by Nick Stull

Dara Naraghi joined FLOW as its first Executive Director on July 1, 2025, reporting to the board of directors. He is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization, including coordinating volunteers and service events such as litter cleanups, invasive species removals, and tree plantings, as well as administrative tasks, member communications, social media updates, community outreach, and fundraising activities. His initial priority is to learn as much about FLOW’s core programs, operations, and processes from current Watershed Coordinator, Maggie Guetschow, before her departure in pursuit of her Masters degree.

Dara started his college studies as an enthusiastic biology major, but soon discovered he had no love for chemistry, which led to a change in major to Computer Science and a career in IT. Starting out as a software developer, he eventually moved into people and project management, where over decades he honed the leadership, organization, management, and people skills that will serve him in his new role with FLOW. Dissatisfied with the soulless nature of the corporate world and wanting to have a more meaningful impact on the local community, he decided to pivot in his career and pursue his enthusiasm for nature and conservation. As a volunteer with FLOW going back many years, the chance to contribute to the organization’s success in a more direct way was exactly the opportunity he was looking for.

Outside of work, Dara’s two passions are outdoor recreation, and comic books and graphic novels. When not pursuing hiking, backpacking, running, cycling, paddling, and camping, he tries to find time for writing. His work has been published by prominent comic book publishers such as DC comics, and two of his graphic novels have made the New York Times bestsellers list. Dara lives in Columbus near the banks of the Olentangy River with his lovely wife, and a weird hound with a big heart.