I am a 20+ year parks and recreation practitioner dedicated to providing exceptional public services that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life. Throughout my career, I have served in diverse leadership roles spanning recreational programming, marketing, communications, special events, food and beverage operations, and facility management.

Currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, I combine academic research with hands-on experience to advance leadership and innovation in the field. My work reflects a lifelong commitment to connecting people with their communities that inspire well-being and belonging.

Education

Ph.D. Recreation, Sport and Tourism (Expected Graduation, 2025)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, U.S.A.

 

M.B.A. Marketing and Strategic Management (May 2014)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, U.S.A.

 

M.S. Recreation, Sport and Tourism (December 2009)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, U.S.A.

 

B.S. Business Administration, Management Information Systems (May 2007)

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, U.S.A

 

Abroad & Global Exchange, International Policy & Business Administration (2004)

Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey, México City, México

Awards

APRF Scholarship, Revenue School (2026)

American Parks and Recreation Foundation (APRF)

 

Achievement Award (2025)

National Recreation and Park Ethnic Minority Society

 

Visionary Award (2025)

Illinois Park and Recreation Association, Communications and Marketing Section

 

Toro Scholarship, Directors School (2021, 2022)

National Recreation and Parks Association

 

Illinois Park & Recreation Association Agency Showcase

  • 3rd Place: Virtual Brochure (2024)
  • 1st Place: Table Display (2023)
  • 1st Place: Virtual Brochure (2023)
  • 2nd Place: Social Media Campaign (2023)
  • 1st Place: Social Media Campaign (2022)
  • 1st Place: Integrated Photography (2022)
  • 2nd Place: Virtual Program Guide (2022)
  • 3rd Place: Agency Showcase (2022)
  • 3rd Place: People’s Choice Agency Showcase (2020)
  • 1st Place: Program Guide (2019)
  • 2nd Place: Logo Design (2019)
  • 2nd Place: Digital Marketing (2018)

 

NSH-MBA Full Year Scholarship (2012)

National Society of Hispanic MBAs

 

IPRA, Best Legislative Article Award (2011)

Illinois Park and Recreation Association

 

Ronald H. Dodd Award (2008)

Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism