As the first-time program director in 1982, she immediately introduced programs for the park district: Hidden Meadows Day Camp, Winter Woods Day Camp, Volunteer Naturalist Program, and after-school children’s nature programs. After her promotion to director in 1997, the park district acquired seven new parks and added 56 acres to existing parks. New facilities include the Grant Nature Nook, Mark Kreusch Nature Playce, a skatepark, all-access playground, dog park and other amenities.
“What I enjoyed most about this job was getting involved with many different amazing groups in the community,” said Kennard, who lives in Washington Twp. with husband John, a GM retiree and Centerville Schools bus driver. “Partnering with other local governments, service clubs and private donors enabled us to stretch tax dollars to provide opportunities for people to enjoy their parks in many unique and fun ways.”
During her long career for the park district, she assisted with six successful park levy campaigns. Kennard is particularly proud of the Smith Farm addition to Bill Yeck Park that added 37 acres to the 194-acre nature park.
“It took 25 years of planning and relationship building that enabled this important acquisition,” said Kennard. “The master plan for this area was recently developed with input from the community. Phase 1 this year adds an entrance drive, parking lot, and renovation of the historic home.”
After retirement, Kennard plans to spend some of her time hiking in the woods searching for birds or wildflowers, walking her golden retriever and taking tap/jazz dance classes. Never one to sit still, she’ll find ways to stay involved.
“I haven’t figure it out yet, but I plan to find ways to give back to the community,” said Kennard. “I am very involved in the Centerville Rotary Club, and I am vice-chair of the Centerville-Washington Diversity Council. I will continue to further the efforts of both of these organizations.”
The Centerville-Washington Park District currently operates eight community parks, eight nature parks, and 33 neighborhood parks in Centerville and Washington Township. For more information about the Centerville-Washington Park District, please call (937) 433-5155 or visit www.cwpd.org.
“I’m excited for the future of the park district, and feel fortunate we have such support for parks, open space and park programs in our community,” said Kennard.
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