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.