The Glen Ellyn Park District Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce David Harris as the new Executive Director of the Glen Ellyn Park District. Harris is currently the director of the Butterfield Park District and is a 19-year resident of Glen Ellyn. Harris is expected to start on September 7, 2011."Dave Harris is an experienced leader who understands Glen Ellyn. I am confident that he has the skills, experience and determination to guide the Park District in improving fiscal discipline, maintenance of our parks and facilities, and customer service. I am thrilled to have Dave on board," said Melissa Creech, Glen Ellyn Park District Board President.
Harris has over twenty years of experience in park districts, much of which he spent at the Park District of Highland Park. There he launched a profitable new recreation and fitness center similar to the Ackerman Sports and Fitness Center and managed a nature center, golf course, pools, water park and an indoor ice rink. Additionally, Harris has significant experience in all other areas within the Parks and Recreation industry including parks maintenance, athletics, fundraising and community relations.
"I am honored and excited to be appointed the next executive director for the Glen Ellyn Park District. As a 19 year resident of Glen Ellyn, my wife, two daughters and I have utilized and enjoyed District programs, facilities and parks over the years. Along with my professional experience, my personal insight and knowledge of the community will provide a foundation to enable me to lead and provide direction for the Park District. To be able to serve the community that has provided so many opportunities for my family and me is tremendous and I cannot wait to get started," said Harris.
The Board approved the 18-month contract with a salary of $117,000 at the July 7, 2011 board meeting. Harris replaces Cory Atwell, who retired in January after 16 years as executive director of the Glen Ellyn Park District.
"Dave Harris understands the importance of listening to the community we serve. I am convinced that he will be able to take our customer service to the next level and make our Park District even better," said Gary Mayo, Glen Ellyn Park District Commissioner.
The Glen Ellyn Park District Executive Director is responsible for the daily operations for the district, which serves 35,000 residents and has a staff of 31 full-time employees and 500 part-time employees. Harris was selected from a pool of over 50 candidates who responded to the Glen Ellyn Park District's national search for a new director through the search firm Hazard, Young, Attea and Associates.
