News

2022 “William V. Haskell” Distinguished Professional of the Year Award Winner Jen DeRice, Director, Standish Parks & Recreation Department

Jen began her career in Parks and Recreation like many of us did, as a summer camp counselor at Yarmouth Community Services.  She graduated from USM and what started out as a summer job evolved into a full-time position as a Recreation Programmer, working under the guidance of the late Russell Packett and lo and […]

2021 “Dr. Bill Eckart” Young Professional Award Winner Amelia Meier, Saco Parks and Recreation Department

Amelia Meier has worked for the City of Saco for 9 years and has had a few different roles throughout her time here. She currently is the City’s Wellness Coordinator and the Saco Parks and Recreation Department’s Community Outreach Coordinator. Two of the largest components of her job include building programs and providing opportunities for […]

2021 “William V. Haskell” Distinguished Professional of the Year Award Winner Robin Cogger, Director, York Parks & Recreation Department

Robin Cogger has worked for the York Parks & Recreation Department for over 30 years, beginning as a camp counselor as a college student. During this time, she is held many positions, including Special Events Coordinator, Recreation Coordinator, Assistant Director, Director of the Senior Center, and her current role as the Department’s Director. York manages […]

2020 “William V. Haskell” Distinguished Professional of the Year Award Winner Hillary Hallett, Recreation Director, Easton Recreation Department

Hillary has been a dedicated professional who has worked on behalf of Maine Recreation and Park members in her region since 2016, serving on the Maine Recreation and Park Association as the liaison to the Northern Maine Community Recreation Association. She spearheaded efforts to revitalize the various program of the association by chairing committees and […]

2020 “Dr. Bill Eckart” Young Professional Award Winner Gary Colello, Director, Bridgton Recreation

Gary Colello is being recognized by his professional peers with an award by the Maine Recreation and Parks Association. He has demonstrated outstanding leadership for the residents of Bridgton by developing, coordinating and implementing recreational opportunities for all ages.  Gary has recently served on the MRPA Fall Workshop and the MRPA annual conference planning committees. […]

2020 Outstanding Parks Professional Award Winner John “Linky” Erskine, Park Operations Manager and City Arborist at South Portland Parks, Recreation and Waterfront

Linky is being recognized by his professional peers with an award by the Maine Recreation and Parks Association.   John “Linky” Erskine has worked for the City of South Portland for over 30 years in a variety of capacities from Animal control officer, Parks mechanic, Parks foreperson, and is currently the Parks Supervisor in charge of […]