Glencoe Park District Continues Legacy of Excellence as a 2026 National Gold Medal Award Finalist

Monday, April 27, 2026

The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), has announced the Finalists for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. For the second consecutive year, the Glencoe Park District has been named a Finalist in Class V, honoring its exceptional contribution to the community. Musco Lighting, LLC, proudly sponsors the award program.

The National Gold Medal Award is the highest honor in the parks and recreation field, celebrating agencies that demonstrate excellence in long-range planning, resource management, and community engagement. The selection criteria align with NRPA's three core pillars: Health and Well-Being, Equity, and Environmental Resilience. Finalists are chosen by a panel of five distinguished park and recreation professionals who evaluate each agency's innovative programs, dedicated leadership, and significant community impact.

This marks the second straight year the Glencoe Park District has been named a Finalist since becoming eligible to reapply for the award. This continued recognition follows their prestigious Grand Plaque win in 2019 and a consistent presence as a Finalist in 2017, 2018, and 2019, underscoring a sustained, long-term commitment to excellence.

"It is an incredible honor for the Glencoe Park District to be again recognized as a Finalist for the National Gold Medal," said Lisa Sheppard, Executive Director of the Glencoe Park District. "This achievement is a direct reflection of the dedication of our staff, board, and volunteers. We are proud to serve our community by advancing the pillars of health, equity, and environmental resilience, and we are thrilled to stand alongside other outstanding agencies in Illinois and across the country."

One Finalist agency in each class will receive the Grand Plaque, with the winner announced at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference, held September 29-October 1 in Philadelphia.

Since its inception in 1965, the National Gold Medal Award program has served as a benchmark for excellence in the parks and recreation profession. Glencoe's legacy, highlighted by its 2019 Grand Plaque win and its return as a Finalist in 2025 and 2026, showcases an unwavering commitment to delivering innovative and impactful services.

For more information about the Gold Medal Awards, visit www.nrpa.org/awards/goldmedal.