Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks: WESTCHESTER COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT EARNS THREE PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS.

 

WESTCHESTER COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT EARNS THREE PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS.

Commissioner O’Connor and two innovative programs honored.

 

[Ardsley, NY] — The Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) was recently given three significant awards by the Westchester Recreation and Parks Society (WRAPS). The trio highlighted PRC’s leadership in excellence and innovation in programming.

Commissioner Kathy O’Connor received the Joseph E. Curtis Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding accomplishments in the fields of recreation, parks or conservation administration, program supervision, leadership or facility development. A member of PRC since 1980, O’Connor has served as commissioner since 2010, overseeing more than 240 staff and managing an annual budget of $55 million. Under her leadership, the department has been re-accredited by the National Recreation and Parks Association in 2013, 2018, and most recently, in 2024—maintaining its status as New York State’s first nationally accredited county parks system since 2003.

Two PRC programs were recognized with the Matt Dolan Innovative Program Award and Grant, which celebrates creativity and originality in recreational programming across Westchester.

The first, Puppy Yoga, was a one-hour yoga class held at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. It featured eight French bulldog puppies freely interacting with participants during the session, followed by a 45-minute play period. Praised for its physical and mental wellness benefits, the program will return this September.

The second honoree was the Patterns in Nature exhibit at Lasdon Park, Arboretum & Veterans Memorial in Katonah. Originally scheduled to run from March through mid-June, it was extended through August 31 due to popular demand. Drawing almost 7,000 visitors, the interactive experience combined vivid multimedia displays, hands-on learning stations, and immersive environments to reveal the mathematical and artistic beauty of nature’s patterns. Patterns in Nature captivated children and adults with its blend of education and visual wonder.

County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester County is proud of the outstanding leadership Commissioner O’Connor brings to our nationally recognized Parks Department. These well-deserved awards reflect not only her decades of service but also the creativity and energy of the entire PRC team. Puppy Yoga and Patterns in Nature show how parks can inspire, educate and uplift our communities.”

Commissioner O’Connor said: It’s an incredible honor to receive the Joseph E. Curtis Achievement Award and to see our team’s innovative programs recognized. We’re always looking for creative ways to engage the public and connect them with nature, wellness and community. These awards are a testament to the passion and dedication of our staff and partners.”

WRAPS is dedicated to advancing the field of parks and recreation in Westchester County through professional development and recognition of excellence.