Seattle's own Anthony-Paul (AP) Diaz, Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation, has been recognized nationally for his leadership within the realm of park and recreational administration. According to an announcement published on Parkways Seattle, Diaz was recently inducted into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration as a Fellow, cementing his status among the country's esteemed professionals in this field.
Eligibility for this prestigious academy requires candidates to not only have a minimum of 15 years in high-level administration but also to have shown a commitment to significantly advance the public's understanding of parks and recreation. Diaz has exceeded these benchmarks, managing a robust portfolio of 500 parks and special facilities with a $1B budget. Diaz's recent induction was celebrated during the Academy's virtual General Membership Meeting held on Wednesday last week, October 9, 2024, reflecting his dedication to the discipline.
The Academy, established in 1980, has a goal to promote the significance of parks and recreation for the public good and to enhance the profession through education, research, and publishing. President Tracey Crawford, Executive Director of the Northwest Special Recreation District in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, remarked on the occasion, "The Academy is honored to induct AP Diaz into its ranks. The Academy represents a diverse group of professionals and educators – all with superior career experience and a dedication to improving the quality of life through the provision of high-quality parks and recreation opportunities," as stated in the press release.
Diaz's impressive track record includes over 25 years of service, with past roles as the Executive Officer of LA City Parks and a lengthy tenure as a City Attorney in Los Angeles. His expertise extends into instruction at the NRPA Director’s School and leadership academies, along with adjunct professor responsibilities at Seattle University Law School. Diaz also maintains a presence in the judicial system, serving as Judge Pro Tem for the Los Angeles Superior Court. His influence in Seattle is broad, engaging with the Seattle Sports Commission and boards of the city's cultural institutions. Additional information about Anthony-Paul Diaz and his career accomplishments can be found on the Seattle Parkways blog.
