Michelle Healy chosen as Bend Park and Rec District’s next executive director

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Board of Directors for the Bend Park and Recreation District announced that Michelle Healy will become the next executive director on July 1. The board officially approved the employment contract at its public meeting Tuesday evening.

“Our goal was to find an executive director who is strategic, visionary and values partnerships and collaboration with other organizations. Michelle Healy has all these qualities and was extraordinary in our interview process and conversations,” said Nathan Hovekamp, chair of the board of directors. “She is a professional who is well-regarded locally and statewide in the field of park and rec, and she thoroughly understands the community dynamics and opportunities ahead.”

Healy was the finalist selected in the internal search conducted by the board of directors. She has been with the district for 11 years and currently serves as the deputy executive director. Previously she was the director of planning and development and park services. Her career also includes roles at North Clackamas Parks & Recreation District and in the private sector in environmental consulting.

She is a certified parks and recreation professional, a past-president of the Oregon Recreation and Parks Association, and is currently a judge for the National Gold Medal Award Program by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association.

“I look forward to working with the community and the district’s fantastic team in the new role,” said Healy. “My career has prepared me for this position and I thank the board of directors for the opportunity.”

In June of 2023, Executive Director Don Horton announced plans to retire on Oct. 1, 2024. The board conducted the search for a successor with input from district staff, community partners and stakeholders. The goal was for a smooth transition ahead of the fall departure by its longtime leader, who started in 2003.

“Over the next few months, Michelle and Don will continue to work together, as they’ve done so well for more than 11 years,” added Hovekamp. “The district is fortunate that its leadership has been a team approach and that will serve our community best as we begin this new chapter at the district.”