Parks & Community Services staff earn awards for dedication, service and impact

Published June 26 2024

At the recent Washington Recreation and Parks Association annual conference, Bellevue Parks & Community Services staff were honored with three awards from WRPA.

Staff at Bellevue's Highland Community Center (Kim Indurkar, Mary Boyle and Jennifer Brown) received the Ron C. Davis II Unsung Hero Award for their dedication and innovation providing recreational opportunities to people with disabilities. Highland Community Center is a hub for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, offering accessible opportunities for recreation, socialization and learning, so people of all abilities can participate fully in the community. Additionally, the center offers a wide array of recreation, sports, fitness, cultural arts and social programs.

Parks & Community Services marketing manager Colin Walker received a Citation of Merit - Professional Award, which recognizes individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the field of parks and recreation. Walker has led the development and implementation of the department's marketing and communications plan, including the Connections program brochure, social media platforms, e-newsletter, customer satisfaction research, program data analysis, staff trainings and more.

Parks & Community Services Director Michael Shiosaki received the WRPA's Impact and Influence award for his 35-year career in park and recreation system development, management and leadership across the state. As the highest recognition bestowed by WRPA to an individual, the Impact and Influence award recognizes an individual's dedication and achievement in the field of parks and recreation.

WRPA awards honor people, parks and programs for outstanding contributions to the field of parks and recreation in Washington.