Allen Parks and Recreation’s Anthony Garza, a Recreation Specialist II for the adult athletics division, can now add a new accolade to his professional resume – graduating from the Texas Recreation and Park Society (TRAPS) Academy of Leadership Development.
The TRAPS leadership academy has the goal of building a community of professionals who are dedicated to effective leadership to advance the industry. The graduation ceremony for Garza’s class was held in February 2019 at the annual TRAPS Institute and Expo.
Having worked for Allen Parks and Recreation since 2014, Garza’s responsibilities include playing a major role in developing and coordinating the City of Allen’s adult athletics leagues as well as the annual Rudolph Run. Garza also played an integral role in the opening of the new Spirit Park softball complex, including the execution of new softball league formats.
Developed for young professionals, the TRAPS leadership academy is a yearlong program that includes classes and group activities, training from industry leaders, and the opportunity to provide education to legislators at the Texas State Capitol about the latest parks and recreation trends, policies and practices. An application and committee review process selects up to 20 individuals from throughout Texas to participate in each TRAPS leadership academy, which occurs biennially.
TRAPS is a professional organization dedicated to providing education, advocacy and resources to all who enhance the quality of life through parks, open spaces and recreation.