Thank You to Our Sponsors
Administration & Management Excellence
City of Lewisville
Park Tank Park Operations Edition
The City of Lewisville Parks & Recreation Department launched the Shark Tank Initiative to boost employee engagement and increase staff involvement in decision-making. Inspired by Gallup Q-12 feedback, Park Operations crews pitched project ideas directly to leadership, shifting maintenance planning from a top-down model to a collaborative, staff-driven approach. Employees took ownership from concept to completion, funding innovative park improvements while strengthening morale and teamwork. By combining engagement, accountability, and measurable results, the initiative improved the department’s engagement score and demonstrated how inclusive leadership drives both organizational excellence and community impact.
Excellence in Planning
City of Fort Worth
GREENprint Fort Worth: Parks, Recreation Open Spzce, and Public Realm Master Plan with Stantec
The GREENprint FORT WORTH: Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Public Realm Master Plan represents a transformative 20-year vision redefining urban recreation for one of Texas’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas. Serving more than 1 million residents across 350 square miles, the plan combines bilingual community engagement, advanced GIS analysis, and data-driven decision-making to guide equitable investment and long-term growth.
The planning process introduced innovative strategies—including mobile engagement units, augmented reality visualization, and youth leadership programs—to ensure historically underrepresented communities had meaningful opportunities to shape their recreational future.
The master plan establishes measurable outcomes, including $2.3 billion in projected property value growth, prioritization of 15 underserved neighborhoods for new development, and more than 500 acres of green infrastructure to strengthen climate resilience. This award-winning effort provides a replicable model for equitable recreation planning and positions Fort Worth as a national leader in community-driven, action-oriented planning that delivers lasting impact.
Maintenance Achievement
City of West University Place
“Smart Water Irrigation Project.”
The City of West University Place proudly nominates its Smart Irrigation Project, a model of innovation, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility. By installing Weathermatic smart controllers, weather stations, master valves, and flow sensors at 19 sites, the City transformed irrigation into a data-driven, adaptive system that responds to soil conditions, plant needs, slope, and real-time weather. Cloud-based software enables remote monitoring, leak detection, and quick adjustments.
Within the first few months, the project reduced water use by an estimated 34%, saving nearly 3.8 million gallons and approximately $42,000 annually. Beyond these measurable savings, the initiative demonstrates environmental stewardship by modernizing infrastructure to conserve resources, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable practices—serving as a cost-effective and forward-thinking model for other communities.
Park Design Excellence
City of Pflugerville’s Stone Hill Park Multi-Sports Cout with Studio 16:19
The Stone Hill Park Multi-Sport Court is a signature project for the City of Pflugerville—born from community vision and realized through exceptional collaboration. What began as a traditional basketball court evolved into a first-of-its-kind facility where world-class art, innovative sports technology, and strong community partnerships converge.
Designed by Studio 16:19 and supported by partners including 4ATX Foundation, Goalpher, Emily Eisenhart, and local muralist Jana Swec, the court offers year-round opportunities for basketball, soccer, inline hockey, and more. Its custom mural surface, Momentum, celebrates Pflugerville’s vibrant culture and diversity while creating a playable work of art that reflects community pride.
More than a recreation space, the project embodies inclusivity, innovation, and the unifying power of sport—transforming Stone Hill Park into a dynamic destination where residents of all ages and backgrounds come together.
Dan Whitworth Fellow
Tod Spears
Tod Spears has been a dedicated leader and advocate for TRAPS for more than twenty years. As Chair of the Commercial Branch and representative to the Board of Directors, he championed partnerships, mentorship, and the values of Connections, Advocacy, Resources, and Education. His leadership extended into committee service on Institute Planning and Education Program Committees, as well as his active role in TRAPS’ governance re-organization.
Tod has consistently advanced professional development by speaking at state and regional institutes, the TAAF/TRAPS Sports Management School, and mentoring countless members. He was instrumental in the creation and ongoing success of the TRAPS Leadership Academy, securing long-term sponsorship and introducing traditions such as the Leadership Academy challenge coin. Through his vision, advocacy, and commitment, Tod has strengthened TRAPS programs, inspired peers, and elevated the profession across Texas.
Individual Outstanding Service
Jeff Wang, City of Southlake
Jeff Wang exemplifies service with heart and vision. A former Southlake City Council member and current Community Enhancement Development Corporation (CEDC) board member, he has dedicated decades to advancing recreation, cultural exchange, and community wellness.
For the past 12 years, Jeff has led free Tai Chi classes at the Senior Activity Center—saving the City thousands of dollars while fostering connection, friendship, and improved health among participants.
Beyond fitness, he has been the driving force behind Southlake Sister Cities, cultivating lasting international partnerships and leading cultural exchanges that broaden perspectives and strengthen global understanding. Through steady leadership, generosity, and hands-on involvement, Jeff continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact across Southlake.
Recreation Facility Design
Excellence
Garland Parks and Recreation
Holford Recreation and Aquatics Center
Designer: Brinkley Sargent Wiginton Architecture
The Holford Recreation and Aquatics Center, rebuilt through Garland’s 2019 Bond Program, showcases the strength of collaboration between design and parks professionals. In partnership with Brinkley Sargent Wiginton Architects, the City of Garland transformed an aging recreation center and pool into a modern, dynamic community hub serving residents of all ages.
The project features a two-story recreation center with a gymnasium, fitness and multipurpose spaces, and a rooftop patio, complemented by a vibrant aquatic center that includes slides, a current channel, activity pools, and rentable event spaces. A shared breezeway seamlessly connects the two facilities, enhancing year-round flexibility and community access.
Since opening in 2025, Holford has welcomed thousands of residents, driving strong program participation and revenue while strengthening community pride. The facility reflects innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable design—ensuring Garland’s investment will serve generations to come.
Organizational/
Volunteer Service Award
Volunteer Garland
Nominated by the City of Garland
Volunteer Garland has contributed thousands of volunteer hours to beautification projects, litter cleanups, tree plantings, and recreation program support—directly enhancing Garland’s parks and facilities.
Beyond service hours, Volunteer Garland has mobilized in-kind resources, equipment, and personnel, leveraging strong community partnerships to expand the City’s capacity well beyond staff resources. The program actively supports leisure services, promotes civic engagement, and fosters a lasting culture of stewardship that benefits the entire community.
What distinguishes Volunteer Garland is not a single major achievement, but a sustained and meaningful record of service over multiple years—impactful, consistent, and proportionate to its grassroots resources. Simply put, Volunteer Garland embodies the spirit and intent of this award.
Park Development Innovations
City of San Antonio
“Ultimate Park Restroom”
Department staff designed and constructed the Ultimate Park Restroom, a welded and painted metal facility installed at a park site. By utilizing locally sourced materials, the team significantly reduced costs compared to traditional restroom structures.
The result is a permanent, durable facility featuring an attractive, colorful design that withstands the elements, resists vandalism and graffiti, is fully ADA accessible, and is easy to maintain.
Arts & Humanities
Class I
City of Plano
“Quadricentennial Bur Oak Artists’ Display at Texas Forever Festival”
The Bur Oak Artist Challenge was created by the City of Plano to honor the legacy of its historic 400-year-old Bur Oak tree that fell in October 2023. In response to the community’s sense of loss, the program invited North Texas artists and woodworkers to transform salvaged wood into original works of art—turning grief into creativity while celebrating local talent.
More than 60 artists participated, with their work featured at the March 2025 Texas Forever Fest in Haggard Park. Supported by local arts partnerships, the initiative provided a meaningful opportunity for remembrance and artistic connection. Several pieces were selected for permanent installation at city facilities, including a symbolic woodland sculpture in downtown Plano created by a Plano resident to reflect the many roles the tree once served.
Class II
City of Frisco
“Nocturne: Art Trail at Grand Park”
Hundreds gathered along the Big Bluestem Trail at Grand Park in Frisco for Nocturne, an immersive art experience showcasing leading regional artists in light, video, and sound. Held just days after City Council adopted the City’s first Cultural Affairs Master Plan, the event marked several important milestones.
Produced in partnership with AE National—the team behind Aurora—Nocturne was Frisco’s first large-scale, temporary outdoor art installation. For many attendees, it also offered a first glimpse of how Grand Park could help shape the community’s identity. The event positioned Frisco as a growing arts destination in North Texas, drawing audiences of all ages.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing interest in seeing more unique cultural experiences in the future.
i shape the community’s identity. The event positioned Frisco as a growing arts destination in North Texas, drawing audiences of all ages.
Class III
Town of Flower Mound
“Diwali: Festival of Lights”
The Diwali: Festival of Lights Celebration was established four years ago in Flower Mound to honor a global holiday while promoting inclusion and cross-cultural understanding. Featuring authentic music, dance, art, food, and fireworks, the event attracts more than 3,000 residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Created to celebrate the rich Indian and South Asian heritage represented in North Texas, the festival fulfills an important community need for diverse cultural representation and shared experiences. The department partners with the Denton County India Cultural Association (DCICA), which leads planning, fundraising, and entertainment, while the Town provides infrastructure and event oversight.
The Diwali Celebration has quickly become a cornerstone of Flower Mound’s arts programming, fostering cultural curiosity and strengthening community connections.
Class IV
City of Schertz
“Monster’s Vale Collegium”
The annual Monsters Vale Collegium celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and interactive learning, making it a unique contribution to the arts and humanities in Schertz. Held each year at the North Community Center, the event brings together participants of all ages for workshops in leatherworking, fighter practice, boffer archery, storytelling, and historical role-play—blending performance, craft, and hands-on education.
By offering free, accessible programming and volunteering their expertise, Monsters Vale creates an immersive space where creativity, learning, and recreation intersect. The collegium enriches the local arts scene while strengthening community engagement, demonstrating the power of the arts and humanities to inspire, educate, and connect residents of Schertz.
Class V
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Hueco Tanks Community Fair”
In October 2024, Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site hosted its 30th Annual Hueco Tanks Community Fair, welcoming El Paso residents to explore the site’s rich history and natural beauty. In partnership with community organizations, volunteers, and Texas Parks and Wildlife staff, the event offered guided hikes to the pictographs, cultural performances, and interactive resource tables highlighting the area’s natural and cultural significance.
The life-sustaining shade and water of Hueco Tanks continue to draw visitors to this desert oasis—a place where communities have gathered for thousands of years.
Promotional & Marketing Excellence
Class I
City of Garland and their Parks and Recreation Marketing Team
The City of Garland Parks and Recreation Department has redefined community engagement through a bold, unified marketing team formed during CAPRA accreditation. By bringing together Recreation, Parks Operations, Volunteer Garland, and Public and Media Relations, the team has delivered impactful campaigns that capture attention and inspire action.
Award-winning projects, including the Duck Creek Greenbelt mural video, the Volunteer Garland launch, and the Tri City Cleanup campaign, have rallied residents around service and environmental pride. Engaging, trend-aligned Facebook content has further expanded reach and visibility. As a result, park usage, program participation, and memberships have increased significantly.
Through consistent storytelling in the Rec Beat, Silver Scoop, City Press, and dynamic social media, the department reaches diverse audiences, mobilizes thousands of volunteers, strengthens partnerships, and fosters a strong sense of community pride in Garland.
Class II
City of Round Rock
Thor Knows RRTX Is Worthy” Campaign
When the Thor Knows RRTX is Worthy campaign launched, something fun and unexpected arrived in Round Rock. Social media came alive with thousands of comments, shares, and reactions as residents embraced the humor and creativity—posting photos with the hammer, tagging the department, and sporting limited-edition T-shirts.
The excitement quickly moved from online to onsite, with families and visitors heading to Brushy Creek Trail to find the hammer for themselves, transforming the trail into a destination. By turning a single installation into a shared adventure, the campaign became one of the department’s most memorable and impactful marketing efforts—reminding the community that while it may not be Asgard, Round Rock is more than worthy, and its true strength lies in its people.
Class III
City of Temple
Aquatics Hiring Campaign
The City of Temple Aquatics Division proudly presents its Aquatics Hiring Campaign, an innovative effort designed to address critical staffing shortages and rethink how seasonal aquatics positions are promoted. Through a strategic blend of digital marketing, school outreach, and community advocacy, the campaign positioned lifeguarding and swim instruction as meaningful leadership and career-building opportunities.
This approach strengthened the applicant pool while elevating the public perception of aquatics staff. With its creativity, cost-effectiveness, and measurable results, the campaign represents excellence in parks and recreation marketing and promotion.
Class IV
City of Coppell
Community Experience’s Master Plan
To support development of the 2025 Master Plan, Coppell Community Experiences launched a community-focused marketing and engagement initiative to raise awareness, build trust, and encourage residents of all ages to help shape the future of Coppell’s parks, facilities, programs, and services. To address past challenges with low participation and limited representation, the team combined in-person pop-ups at parks, events, and local businesses with a user-friendly online engagement platform.
The Social Pinpoint platform generated more than 10,000 page views and over 1,200 survey responses, along with additional feedback through an interactive map and ideas wall—significantly enhancing the quality and depth of community input used to identify plan priorities. Branded promotional items and incentives, including limited-edition zip code T-shirts and a customized logo, reinforced consistent messaging and strengthened community investment throughout the engagement process.
Lone Star Recreation Programming Achievement
Class I
The City of Fort Worth
“Dream Club”
The Dream Club is an innovative recreation initiative by the Fort Worth Park & Recreation Department designed to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Since launching in 2024, the program has expanded significantly, offering free, inclusive programming at 10 locations citywide. Signature events include sensory-friendly experiences such as the Unified Dance and the metroplex’s first adaptive skateboarding event.
Dream Club intentionally removes barriers to participation by providing transportation, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) boards, and specialized staff training. Through strong partnerships with local organizations, the program reaches underrepresented communities and fosters a welcoming environment where participants build skills, independence, and meaningful social connections.
By prioritizing accessibility, inclusion, and equity, Dream Club sets a new standard for community recreation.
Class II
Lewisville Parks and Recreation
“Zombies, AHH!”
Did you know the CDC even recommends preparedness training framed around a zombie apocalypse? Zombies, AHH! brought that concept to life, delivering an immersive, hands-on emergency preparedness experience for Lewisville residents of all ages.
Participants navigated a zombie-infested maze under a three-minute countdown, racing to collect essential and non-essential items—learning firsthand how critical decisions impact survival. Volunteers from Police, Fire, Engineering, and Emergency Services transformed into fully made-up “zombies,” adding suspense, realism, and cross-department collaboration to the experience.
Following the activity, staff guided participants through key emergency preparedness steps, including registering for Lewisville’s new emergency alert system, prioritizing resources, and responding effectively during a crisis. Each attendee received a starter go-bag stocked with first-aid supplies and essential community information.
By combining gamification, practical skills training, and citywide teamwork, Zombies, AHH! successfully turned entertainment into education. With sold-out attendance, hands-on engagement, and measurable impact, the program stands out as a creative and highly effective approach to preparing residents to respond confidently in real-world emergencies—even when facing hordes of the undead.
Class III
City of Sherman
“Binkley Bike Fest”
The launch of Binkley Bike Fest marked an exciting milestone for Sherman’s cycling community, introducing an inclusive, family-friendly celebration of all things biking. Designed for riders of every age and skill level, the event featured Strider races for young children, guided mountain bike trail rides, and a rare showcase of classic BMX bikes.
A special guest appearance by Cru Jones—portrayed by Bill Allen from the iconic film Rad—added a nostalgic and inspiring highlight. Attendees also enjoyed live presentations from expert riders Anna Luttrell, a certified USA BMX coach, and Billy Russel, former #1 USA BMX Champion, who shared valuable skills and insights.
To ensure accessibility, the event provided loaner bikes and Strider bikes, removing equipment barriers and encouraging broad participation. Supported by local vendors and sponsors, Binkley Bike Fest fostered community connection, promoted healthy outdoor activity, and strengthened Sherman’s vibrant and growing biking culture.
Class IV
City of Katy
“Boots and Brews”
Boots and Brews debuted as the inaugural kickoff to the historic Katy Rice Harvest Festival, blending hometown tradition with fresh energy and innovation. Inspired by small-town church bazaars and evenings under the Texas sky, the event featured live music, craft breweries, family-friendly activities, carnival games, mechanical bulls, farm-themed bounce houses, a petting zoo, and custom hat bars where guests designed their own Western and trucker hats.
Signature elements—including inaugural collector’s cups and tasting cards—raised $6,000 for local scholarships benefiting students in Katy Independent School District. With more than 3,500 attendees, the event created an inclusive, multi-generational experience that celebrated community pride and strong local partnerships.
More than a festival opener, Boots and Brews introduced a dynamic new model for community engagement—blending tradition, creativity, and philanthropy. Its success reflects the dedication of volunteers, local businesses, and City leadership, establishing a new annual tradition that will continue to inspire and unite the Katy community for years to come.
Class V
Texas State Parks
“Deaf Outdoors Day”
Deaf Outdoors Day was a welcoming, inclusive event created specifically for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. On September 28, 2024, Texas State Parks hosted two simultaneous events at Cedar Hill State Park in the Dallas area and Lockhart State Park near Austin. Each location offered guided hikes, archery, Dutch oven cooking, and other outdoor experiences, all supported by American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation.
Most attendees were first-time visitors to a state park, and many shared their intention to return. Built through strong partnerships, thoughtful planning, and creative adaptations to ensure accessibility, Deaf Outdoors Day successfully introduced the outdoors to a new audience and established a replicable model for inclusive, engaging, and community-driven park programming.
Texas Gold Medal
Class II
The City of Allen
Allen Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) creates meaningful life experiences by blending innovation, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. Guided by NRPA’s Three Pillars, PARD serves a growing, diverse community through 53 parks, 83.25 miles of trails, 14 facilities, and over 7,500 annual programs that promote connection, health, and well-being. Signature amenities—like inclusive playgrounds, adaptive programs, cultural events, and scholarship-supported access—ensure every resident can participate.
Nationally recognized for leadership, Allen holds CAPRA accreditation, hosts state and regional conferences, and fosters staff growth through mentorship and professional development.
Distinctive destinations—including The Courses at Watters Creek, the Bark Yard dog park, Stephen G. Terrell Recreation Center, and Allen Heritage Village—offer unique recreational and cultural experiences. A Tree City USA for 26 years, PARD champions conservation. Together, these efforts demonstrate Allen’s dedication to a healthier, more connected, and sustainable community.
Allen would like to highlight the retirement of Tim Dentler, whose leadership as the Director for many of his 31 years with Allen brought them to where they are today. During that time, he was the driving force that literally built the City of Allen from only 30,000 residents to our current population of 115,000.
Allen was extremely fortunate to win the NRPA Gold Medal under his leadership in 2016 and it’s only filling that they’re winning the State Gold Medal this year!
Class IV
The City of Schertz
The Schertz Parks & Recreation Department set a goal in 2016 to transform itself into a world-class department with highly qualified staff, adequate maintenance funding, a first-class trail system, and programming that meets the needs of the community. Over the previous three years the department has added 8 new staff members, secured $1 Million in Transportation Alternatives Funding for trail and sidewalk projects and $12 Million in Economic Development Corporation Funding for quality-of-life projects, and increased the annual General Fund budget by $485,000 for park and trail projects. The department manages 493 acres of parkland; including 1 Recreation Center, 1 Aquatics Center, 1 Senior Center, 1 Civic/Convention Center, 2 Community Centers, 2 Athletic Complexes, 1 skate park, 1 dog park, 1 outdoor pool, 2 splash pads, and 25 miles of trails; and hosts almost 200 programs and special events annually.
Class V
The Lower Colorado River Authority
Over the past three years, LCRA Parks has transformed outdoor recreation in Texas through innovative, visitor-focused strategies. By leveraging strategic partnerships with vendors and creative collaborators, they’ve introduced unique accommodations, immersive events and new water-based adventures, redefining what visitors can expect from a park system. These initiatives have broadened their audience, increased engagement and generated sustainable revenue streams that strengthen them for the future. Through thoughtful investments in glamping and forward-thinking partnerships, the park system continues to expand access, enhance the visitor experience and showcase Texas’ natural landscapes in diverse ways. This combined approach positions LCRA Parks as a leader in outdoor recreation innovation across Texas.
Jerry D. Garrett Young Professional Award
Josh Rodrigue with The City of Cedar Park
Josh is a passionate and innovative parks and recreation professional who exemplifies leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to community. Recognized for his energy, creativity, and collaborative approach, he consistently introduces fresh ideas and inclusive strategies that create meaningful impact for both his team and the public he serves.
A strong advocate for the vital role parks and recreation play in enhancing quality of life, Josh actively champions initiatives that promote wellness, connection, and equity. Whether leading complex projects, mentoring staff, or representing the profession through Texas Recreation and Park Society, he approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and purpose.
His dedication to professional growth, community engagement, and advancing the field distinguishes him among his peers and makes him a tremendous asset to the parks and recreation profession.
Educator Outstanding Performance Award
Dr. Jaime Baxter-Slye, Clinical Assistant Professor for Ecology Education, University of North Texas
Jaime Baxter-Slye, Clinical Assistant Professor of Ecology Education at the University of North Texas, is a dynamic educator and leader who has advanced ecological education through immersive, hands-on learning. She has developed and taught innovative courses, authored field and laboratory methods textbooks, and guided hundreds of undergraduate students in meaningful research and habitat restoration projects.
Her leadership extends well beyond the classroom, building strong partnerships with municipalities across the Dallas–Fort Worth region, including the City of Lewisville and the Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area (LLELA), to address real-world environmental challenges. Through her mentorship, students have presented award-winning research at state and national conferences, while her service to the Texas Society for Ecological Restoration and numerous community organizations has strengthened the field and expanded public engagement.
Dr. Baxter-Slye exemplifies excellence in instruction, research, and service, leaving a lasting impact on students, professionals, and communities across Texas.
Honorary Lifetime Membership Award
Jacquelyn “Lyn” Kinton
City of San Antonio’s Parks and Recreation Department
Jacquelyn “Lyn” Kinton has worked in the Parks and Recreation field for over 30 years. She has served with both the Austin and San Antonio Parks and Recreation Departments and holds a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification.
As an active TRAPS member for the majority of her career, she’s served as an organizer for regional workshops, a program committee chair for regional conferences, a speaker for both the state and regional conferences, as well as a host committee member and volunteer lead for a TRAPS state conference.
Lyn has contributed to other professional and agencies as well including the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Texas Public Pool Council (TPPC), and Longhorn Learning Laboratory. She has also been impactful in the agencies that she has worked for. She has mentored numerous professionals over the years and touched countless lives throughout the communities that she served.
Andy Peal
Sienna Association Parks and Recreation
Andy has dedicated nearly 20 years to advancing the field of parks and recreation, both within Sienna and across Texas through his active involvement in TRAPS and TAAF. Beginning with the management of a handful of facilities, he now oversees Sienna’s expansive system of two fitness centers, five pools (soon to be six), more than 40 parks, a tennis and pickleball complex with further growth planned, two sand volleyball courts, two splashpads, a dog park, and three recreation facilities. His leadership has brought innovation, inclusion, and vision to a community of more than 20,000 residents. Andy’s contributions to the profession have been recognized statewide: the 2009 TRAPS Lonestar Programming Class V Award, the 2012 TAAF Susan L. Gerred Young Professional Award, the 2012 TAAF Region Director of the Year, and the 2018 TRAPS Director of the Year. Andy continues to exemplify professional excellence, mentorship, and dedication to advancing his field.