February 16, 2021 at 1:40pm
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Northbrook Park District Board President Mary Ann Chambers has been appointed sergeant-at-arms of the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Board of Trustees.
An IAPD member for 21 years, Chambers will assist the association with its mission of advancing Illinois park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation and special recreation agencies in their ability to preserve natural resources and improve the quality of life for the people of Illinois. She will work with the 19-member board in advising the association in its service, research, advocacy, public awareness and educational programs.
Chambers, who joined the Northbrook Park District Board of Commissioners in 1999, was sworn in as Board President in June 2020, and previously served as Board President from 2004 to 2006. A longtime resident of Northbrook, she likes to share how her parents were drawn to the community years ago because of the Park District and the beautiful spaces and fun activities it provides. She believes parks are critical to the development of strong communities.
“Mary Ann’s dedication to community service is second to none, and she understands firsthand the positive influences of parks and recreation,” said Peter Murphy, IAPD President and Chief Executive Officer. “We are fortunate to have her working to advance the mission of parks, recreation and conservation statewide.”
Chambers serves on the IAPD Program Committee and is the Exhibits Co-Chair of the IAPD/Illinois Park and Recreation Association Joint Conference Committee. She previously served on the IAPD Board of Trustees for two terms and was the 2008 IAPD Commissioner of the Year.
During her time as a Northbrook Park District Commissioner, Chambers has played a pivotal role in key capital projects, working to obtain OSLAD (Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development) grants for the Trail through Time at Techny Prairie Park and Fields and the development of Greenview and Floral Parks. As a Board Member, Chambers has also been instrumental in the District’s 2018-2022: New Places to Play initiative which includes two major projects: construction of the recently opened Techny Prairie Activity Center as well as course renovations and clubhouse construction at Heritage Oaks Golf Club, formerly known as Sportsman’s Country Club, set to open in late summer 2021.
“We are proud to have Mary Ann lead the Northbrook Park District as the Board President during this crucial time as we expand recreation opportunities in the community,” said Northbrook Park District Executive Director Molly Hamer. “Her passion for preserving and creating spaces where residents can play, relax and connect keeps us focused on our Guiding Principles of striving to improve the quality of life for the people we serve. I am confident that Mary Ann will be an asset to the IAPD Board.”