Texas Recreation and Park Society names Rich DePalma executive director

The Texas Recreation and Park Society has appointed Rich DePalma as executive director after a nationwide search. The move brings a longtime parks, public affairs and nonprofit leader to a statewide group focused on advocacy, professional development and member services.

Why it matters: - TRAPS is adding a leader with direct experience in parks, public engagement and nonprofit work. - The appointment comes as the organization looks to strengthen education, advocacy, professional development and member services across Texas. - DePalma’s background in public projects and community partnerships could shape how TRAPS supports local park systems and recreation professionals.

What happened: - The Texas Recreation and Park Society announced on July 17, 2026, that Rich DePalma will serve as executive director. - The Board of Directors selected DePalma after a nationwide recruitment process. - TRAPS Board President Aaron Dobson said DePalma brings the experience, relationships and strategic leadership needed to build on the organization’s foundation.

The details: - DePalma has more than 20 years of experience in parks and recreation, public affairs, strategic consulting, community engagement, nonprofit leadership and public-sector initiatives. - Before joining TRAPS, DePalma was a vice president at FGM Architects. - At FGM Architects, DePalma worked with Texas communities on public projects, including parks and recreation facilities. - His work included strategic planning, public engagement, partnerships and identifying traditional and alternative funding opportunities for public projects. - DePalma previously served on the TRAPS Legislative Committee. - DePalma also supported TRAPS through professional presentations and organizational sponsorship. - DePalma is a frequent speaker at the Texas Recreation and Park Society Institute and the National Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference. - DePalma said he is honored to lead TRAPS and wants to listen to members and work with staff and partners to expand the organization’s value. - DePalma currently serves as board president of the Barton Springs Conservancy and sits on the advisory board of Hispanic Professionals in Parks and Recreation. - His prior civic and nonprofit leadership includes vice chair of the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Board, president of the TreeFolks Board of Directors, service on the Austin Parks Foundation Board of Directors and co-founding Friends of Dick Nichols Park. - DePalma has also served on public advisory bodies focused on sustainability, conservation, community development and public investment. - TRAPS describes itself as a statewide professional organization dedicated to improving quality of life in Texas through parks, recreation and leisure opportunities. - TRAPS supports professionals through education, professional development, advocacy, networking, leadership opportunities and the exchange of ideas and best practices. - The article includes a TRAPS LinkedIn page.

Between the lines: - TRAPS appears to be prioritizing someone who already knows the organization and the broader Texas parks ecosystem. - DePalma’s mix of consulting, nonprofit and civic-board experience suggests a focus on partnerships, advocacy and funding as much as internal operations. - The board’s unanimous selection signals clear consensus around the choice.

What's next: - DePalma will lead TRAPS as it works with members, staff and partners across Texas. - The organization is likely to continue emphasizing education, advocacy and professional development under its new executive director. - DePalma’s public remarks point to a listening and member-focused approach in the transition.