Trailnet has announced Cindy Mense as its new CEO.

For more than 12 years, Mense has been an integral part of Trailnet’s mission to lead in fostering healthy, active, and vibrant communities where walking, bicycling, and the use of public transit are a way of life. The expertise, experience, and passion she brings to her new role will help advance St. Louis toward being a world class city for walking and bicycling.

Mense’s background demonstrates a commitment to the well-being and health of individuals and the natural environment. She is a registered dietitian with an MS in Public Health and Nutrition. From 1998 to 2000, Mense was the first Director of SLU’s undergrad program for nutrition and dietetics. She also served as the Director of Nutrition Services at People’s Health Center before joining Trailnet as Community Services Director, then Director of Programs.

“I spent the early part of my career as a dietitian helping pregnant women, infants, and children meet their health needs. With moms and babies as a focus, you have to build a foundation for better health.” Mense said. “Similarly, over the years, the Trailnet team and I have laid the foundation for positive health and safety outcomes for communities across the St. Louis region. I’ll be replacing Ralph Pfremmer, who alongside our board has made an immense impact that will ripple through Trailnet and St. Louis for years to come. I’m excited to help guide the next phase of connecting these communities.”

Mense’s elevated leadership role coincides with the release of Trailnet’s Connecting St. Louis Plan. The plan is a detailed account of Trailnet’s vision to transform the City of St. Louis by connecting neighborhoods, cultural districts, and business centers with a seamless network of on-street, protected bicycling and walking paths.

“We are thrilled Cindy has taken on this leadership role,” said Katrina Pon, Trailnet board member and Risk Management Business Director at McCarthy Construction. “Her experience with nonprofit development, expertise in fundraising, and passion for advancing the region’s access to multi-modal transportation make her well qualified to lead the organization in our next phase of growth. Cindy’s commitment to reverse systemic and cultural inequality will also be critical in advancing transportation equity in St. Louis.”