Mayor Sly James announced today that Mary Jane Judy will be the new president of the Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners. Judy has served on the Board as a commissioner since 2013 and will become the fourth female president in its 126-year history.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with a dynamic board and incredible staff during my six years as commissioner,” said Judy. “I’m honored to have been asked to serve as president, and I’m thrilled to continue working to ensure our parks, community centers and programming are accessible and enjoyable for everyone in our community.”
“Mary Jane has been essential to the successful work of our Board,” said Terry Rynard, Deputy Director of Kansas City Parks and Recreation and incoming Director beginning January 2019. “Her leadership skills, strong relationships and experience all made her a natural choice for president.”
“I’m pleased to welcome Mary Jane Judy as the new president of the Board of Kansas City Parks and Recreation Commissioners,” said Mayor Sly James. “In addition to nearly six years of service as a Board Commissioner, Mary Jane has also served as chair of the City’s Liquor Control Board of Review, and in leadership for several successful non profits including the Board of Trustees for the National WWI Museum and Memorial. Mary Jane, who is only the fourth woman to lead the Parks Board, brings a wealth of skill, experience and, most importantly, a love for Kansas City to her new role, and I look forward to her leadership for years to come.”
Judy is an accomplished shareholder with Polsinelli specializing in real estate and finance and will assume the role of president immediately. The Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners holds public meetings every other Tuesday at the Parks and Recreation Department Administration building at 4600 E. 63rd St. All meetings start at 2 p.m. and are open to the public.