IAPD Executive Director Appointed

At their September meeting, the Board of Directors of the Illinois Association of Park Districts voted unanimously to approve the appointment of Robert M. Artz to fill the newly created position of Executive Director for IAPD. The appointment is the result of an extensive nationwide search conducted by the American Society of Association Executives for the IAPD Board.

Robert Artz is currently general manager of the Simi Valley Recreation and Park District in California. Previously he was employed by the National Recreation and Park Association for 11 years. While at NRPA was Director of Research, Publications and Development; Executive Secretary of the Commissioner-Board Member Branch; Director of Branch, Affiliate, and Field Operations; and also directed NRPA's department of Programs and Services.

Artz has experience with publications, technical assistance and consultation services, national community school projects, and local park and recreation services. He has also worked extensively with commissioners and board members throughout the states.

Prior to joining the NRPA, Artz was Superintendent of Oregon's Willamalene Park and Recreation District and director of the first combined city-school park and recreation department in Oxford, Ohio.

He brings to Illinois over 20 years of experience in parks and recreation.