Park & Recreation
Mary Ellen Donner, C.P.R.P.
Park & Recreation Director
Contact:
Office Telephone: (702) 267-4009
Office Fax: (702) 267-4001
E-Mail: MaryEllen.Donner@cityofhenderson.com
Professional Biography:
Mary Ellen Donner was named Director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Henderson in
April 2007. As director, she is responsible for recreation programming, parks planning,
strategic planning, parks maintenance, oversight of budget, and the associated department
staff. Additionally, she is the staff liaison for the Blue Ribbon Commission on Educational
Excellence and Youth Opportunity, Commemorative Beautification Commission, Parks and
Recreation Board, and Senior Citizens Advisory Commission.
From 1989 - 2007, Mary Ellen was employed by Collier County Parks and Recreation Department in Naples, Florida, and most recently served as their Assistant Director. During her tenure, Mary Ellen spearheaded the effort for Collier County to earn accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Prior to joining Collier County, she worked for the Halifax Recreation Department in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Mary Ellen earned her bachelor's degree in Physical Education and Recreation at Acadia University in Nova Scotia. She then spent two years at Laval University in Quebec City where she studied the French language. Returning to Acadia University, she earned a second bachelor's degree in French. Mary Ellen has always had a love of cooking and in 2000 attended Johnson and Wales Culinary Arts School in North Miami, Florida.
Mary Ellen maintains numerous aquatic, fitness, and culinary certifications. She is an active member of the Nevada Parks and Recreation Society (NRPS) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Mary Ellen has also achieved recognition through NRPA as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. She previously served as the District VI Director for the Florida Recreation and Park Association.
Mary Ellen is a past competitive swimmer, earning awards from the Atlantic University Athletic Association and the Canadian Intercollegiate Athletic Union. Her teams' efforts led to Mary Ellen's induction into the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame.
09/2007