New Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs

Roderick Simmons

City Manager Gary Jackson named Roderick Simmons, of Clinton, NC, as the new Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs for the City of Asheville. Simmons will begin his duties with the city of Asheville on April 2, 2007. “It is an honor to be selected for this position; I am really excited and looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the community,” stated Simmons.



Jackson
noted Simmons’ experience in several aspects of the Parks and
Recreation field as a valuable asset to his new role. “Roderick brings
a unique combination of knowledge, skills and credentials to
Asheville,” explained Jackson. “He is a dedicated public servant with
more than 16 years of experience in the Parks and Recreation field.”


Simmons most
recently worked for Sampson County as the Director of Parks and
Recreation, a position he has held since 2001. His previous experience
also includes working for seven years as Athletic Program Coordinator
for the City of Fayetteville, and Recreation Center Director for the
City of High Point for three years.


Simmons is a
graduate of Catawba College with a Bachelor of Science degree in
Recreation Management, and holds a Masters of Science in Administration
from Central Michigan University. Simmons also has numerous
professional affiliations and has received awards for his outstanding
work and accomplishments.


Simmons will also be joined by his wife, Kateena, and their two sons, Joshua, 5, and Justin, 3.