The city of Kyle recently welcomed Mariana Espinoza, who will take over as the director of Parks and Recreation.
She was hired following the retirement of long-time PARD Director Kerry Urbanowicz.
Espinoza has been in the municipal recreation field for about 20 years, the last two of which she served as the Parks and Recreation Director for the city of Dripping Springs.
Espinoza has also worked for two National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Gold Medal Cities: Austin and Grand Prairie.
“With her nearly two decades of experience, plus her educational background, we see Mariana bringing a lot of new ideas and fresh energy to lead our very talented parks and recreation staff,” Chief of Staff Jerry Hendrix said. “We’re excited to welcome her to Team Kyle and look forward to her leadership of the department.”
Espinoza earned a BS in Park, Recreation and Tourism Resources from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Professional Development – Management from Dallas Baptist University. She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional and a Certified Aquatic Facility Operator.
Espinoza has won numerous awards from the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) and the National Recreation and Park Association and has published several articles in national parks and recreation publications.
Espinoza serves on TRAPS Committees and for the American Academy of Park and Recreation Administrators Externship Program. Espinoza also serves as a visitor for the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity to work with Team Kyle to serve to the community and grow the Parks and Recreation Department and its services” Espinoza said.
