Danielle Robins-Crook, MPA

Executive Director, Department of Parks and Recreation

Professional Overview
Danielle Robins-Crook is a seasoned parks and recreation executive with a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives and delivering exceptional community experiences. As the Executive Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation in Evansville, Indiana, she leverages her extensive industry expertise and collaborative leadership to enhance the city's vibrant outdoor spaces and recreational offerings.

Experience Summary

Current Role
Serving as the Executive Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation since January 2024, Danielle oversees the operations, planning, and development of Evansville's extensive park system and recreational programming. In this role, she spearheads innovative projects, fosters community partnerships, and ensures the efficient management of the department's resources. Under her guidance, the department has successfully launched several new initiatives, including the expansion of the city's trail network and the implementation of a comprehensive sustainability plan for parks and facilities.

Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Danielle held the position of Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation in Evansville, where she played a crucial part in implementing strategic plans and enhancing service delivery. Before that, she served as the General Manager for the City of Evansville-Vanderburgh County, where she demonstrated her ability to effectively manage large-scale operations and drive organizational change.

Academic Background
Danielle holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree, specializing in Parks and Recreation Management, from Indiana University. Her academic achievements and specialized training have equipped her with a deep understanding of the intricacies of public sector administration and the unique challenges faced by parks and recreation departments.

Areas of Expertise

• Strategic planning and execution

• Park system management and development

• Community engagement and stakeholder collaboration

• Resource allocation and budget optimization

• Sustainable environmental practices

• Innovative program design and implementation

Professional Impact
Under Danielle's leadership, the Department of Parks and Recreation has achieved several notable accomplishments, including:

• Securing $2.5 million in grant funding to expand the city's trail network, improving accessibility and promoting active lifestyles

• Implementing a comprehensive sustainability plan that has resulted in a 20% reduction in the department's carbon footprint

• Developing and launching a series of successful community events and recreational programs that have seen a 15% increase in participant engagement

Conclusion
Danielle Robins-Crook's extensive expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to sustainable innovation make her a valuable asset to the City of Evansville. As the Executive Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, she continues to drive positive change, enhance the community's quality of life, and position Evansville as a vibrant and inviting destination for residents and visitors alike.