FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Derek Harms
Date: February 11, 2025
Phone: (217) 544-1751 ext 1000
LESLIE SGRO HONORED WITH THE PRESTIGIOUS MIKE CASSIDY COMMISSIONER COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
[Springfield, IL] – The Springfield Park District is proud to announce that Leslie Sgro, President of the Springfield Park District, has been named the recipient of the esteemed Mike Cassidy Commissioner Community Service Award. This award recognizes outstanding park commissioners whose dedication and volunteer service reflect the vision and values of the late Mike Cassidy, a long-time Freeport Park District commissioner known for his commitment to community betterment and public service.
Leslie Sgro’s distinguished 33-year tenure as the longest-serving and first female president of the Springfield Park District has transformed the district’s parks, programs, and conservation efforts. Under her leadership, the district has expanded by over 1,000 acres, preserving more than 450 acres of natural habitats and implementing environmentally sustainable practices. Her efforts have significantly enhanced the community’s recreational infrastructure, including multi-use trails, playgrounds, pickleball courts, splash pads, and inclusive, accessible facilities.
Beyond her contributions to the park district, Leslie’s dedication to community service has left an indelible mark on Springfield. She co-founded Springfield Micro-Pantry Helpers, chairs the Interfaith Thanksgiving Basket Program, and actively serves on numerous boards, including the Hoogland Center for the Arts, Sangamo Club, and Springfield/Sangamon County Regional Planning Commission. Her leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion has driven initiatives such as the Summer Youth Work and Training Program and the Comer Cox Teen Empowerment Zone, fostering opportunities for underserved youth.
Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher, “On behalf of the City of Springfield, I want to congratulate Park Board President Leslie Sgro on receiving the prestigious Mike Cassidy Commissioner Community Service Award. This statewide recognition speaks volumes about her exceptional leadership at the Springfield Park District. While our governmental bodies are separate, we share a commitment to serving our residents, and President Sgro’s dedication to creating outstanding recreational opportunities has made our entire community a better place to live. This well-deserved honor reflects the positive impact her work has had on residents throughout our community. Springfield Park District is an integral part of our community, I cannot thank the district and President Sgro enough for their commitment and dedication to our community. Congratulations, President Sgro, on a well-deserved award.”
“Springfield Park District plays an important role in our community, giving people places to enjoy the outdoors,” said State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield). “Leslie has done a tremendous job making our parks more accessible and inviting in innovative ways for the entire Springfield community.”
"Leslie Sgro embodies the true spirit of the Mike Cassidy Commissioner Community Service Award," said Derek Harms, Executive Director. "Her unwavering commitment to parks, conservation, and community outreach has improved the quality of life for countless Springfield residents. She has not only built parks—she has built a stronger, more connected community."
The Mike Cassidy Commissioner Community Service Award was presented to Leslie Sgro during the All-Conference Luncheon at the annual Illinois Association of Park Districts/ Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IAPD/IPRA) Soaring to New Heights Conference on Friday, January 30, 2025. This award is given annually to an elected official who is an active member of IAPD and has demonstrated exceptional leadership, volunteerism, and commitment to community enrichment.
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For more information on this topic and any other Park District news-related items, please visit our website at springfieldparks.org
About the Mike Cassidy Commissioner Community Service Award
Mike Cassidy served as a commissioner for the Freeport Park District for over 35 years, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and advocacy for parks, recreation, and conservation. His passion for public service was evident in his work with IAPD and his commitment to making a lasting impact in his community. The award in his name honors commissioners who share his dedication to improving lives through parks and recreation.
About the Springfield Park District: Parks, People, and Possibilities
Celebrating 125 Years of Parks, People, and Possibilities, the Springfield Park District continues its mission of enriching lives through recreation and conservation. Established on February 8, 1900, it is the second park district formed in Illinois and remains an independently governed municipal agency. The District provides accessible and memorable recreational opportunities while preserving natural resources for future generations. With over 36 parks, recreational facilities, and natural areas, the Springfield Park District offers diverse programs, events, and rental spaces for all to enjoy. Governed by a publicly elected board and operating with less than six percent of local tax funding, the District remains a leader in delivering exceptional value with many fun programs and events this year. Find your fun, find your smile at springfieldparks.org.