Arkansas State Parks honored outstanding leadership and teamwork last week during the annual Superintendents Conference, recognizing superintendents and park teams whose dedication and service elevated visitor experiences across the state.
The event highlighted individuals and parks that exemplify collaboration, stewardship, creativity, and commitment to the mission of Arkansas State Parks.
Award Recipients
Exceptional Teamwork Award
• Devil’s Den State Park — Superintendent Jay Schneider
Exceptional Experience Award
• Crowley’s Ridge State Park — Region III Manager Mary Buchman
• Pinnacle Mountain State Park — Superintendent Josh Jeffers
Special Achievement Award
• Jacksonport State Park — Superintendent Mark Ballard
Park of the Year Finalists
• Mount Magazine State Park — Superintendent Sarah Keating
• Lake Dardanelle State Park — Superintendent Seth Boone
• Daisy State Park — Superintendent Nathan Fort
• Lake Frierson State Park — Superintendent Catherine Combs
• Bull Shoals White River State Park — Superintendent Stewert Taylor
Park of the Year: Bull Shoals White River State Park
Bull Shoals White River State Park, led by Superintendent Stewert Taylor, earned the top honor of Park of the Year, recognized for exceptional performance, visitor experience, and innovative park management.
Additional Recognition
The conference also celebrated John Morrow, Superintendent of Ozark Folk Center State Park, who was recently named Stone County Officer of the Year by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin.
A Year Defined by Leadership and Service
Arkansas State Parks officials say these awards reflect the strength of the statewide system—built on dedication to public service, commitment to conservation, and teamwork that ensures every visitor has a meaningful experience.
It was a year well earned and well led, showcasing the quiet but powerful work happening every day in Arkansas’s state parks.
Leave a Reply