FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2024
Charlottesville City Manager Selects Director of Parks and Recreation
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – Charlottesville City Manager, Samuel Sanders, Jr. has selected a new Director of Parks and Recreation, Riaan Anthony, who started his role on Monday, July 1st.
Riaan Anthony has served as the Interim Director of Parks and Recreation for the last nine months. He has spent the last nine years of his career working for the City – all within the Parks and Recreation department. Riaan stepped up to fill the vacant role as director during an unstable period for the department.
“I am both humbled and excited to officially step into the role of Director of our department,” said Riaan. “It is a great honor and privilege to serve our community. Having served as the interim Director for some time, I understand the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This transition to a permanent leadership position will provide stability and allow us to continue progressing towards our goals and objectives.”
Riaan is a seasoned professional in the field of local government and recreation management. He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Old Dominion University (ODU) and a master certificate in local government from Virginia Tech (VT). He also possesses two degrees in sport management and a degree in parks and recreation.
Riaan's extensive career includes serving as the Director of Recreation in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, and as a Recreation Facility Manager in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.
Riaan’s dedication to his role and his community makes him a respected leader in the realm of parks and recreation management. His ongoing efforts continue to positively impact the lives of many, fostering an environment where individuals can thrive through active participation in parks and recreation activities.
"I am pleased to have Mr. Anthony as our new Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Charlottesville,” said Deputy City Manager for Social Equity Ashley Marshall. “His deep knowledge in providing recreational activities for our community, from toddler to teen to senior, is impressive, and he also has extensive experience on the operations side of the house to ensure that our parkland and trails continue to be a free and enjoyable space for all to visit. I'm very thankful to continue to have Mr. Anthony as part of our team serving this community."
For more information on the City’s Parks and Recreation department, please visit https://www.charlottesville.gov/1742/Parks-Recreation.
Media Contact:
Afton Schneider
Director of Communications & Public Engagement
City of Charlottesville
434-996-0331
schneidera@charlottesville.gov