Lindsay Hart Appointed Director of Parks, Recreation & Culture

Majed Al-Ghafry, City of Lawrence City Manager, has appointed Lindsay Hart as the permanent Director of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Department, recognizing more than two decades of municipal parks and recreation leadership and her proven commitment to serving the Lawrence community.

Hart has served as the department’s interim director during two critical periods, first from December 2023 through May 2024 and again since October 2025. Throughout those leadership transitions, she guided the department through significant operational, staffing and budget initiatives while maintaining continuity of services and supporting employees through periods of change.

As interim director, Hart worked closely with staff to strengthen day-to-day operations, implement 2026 service level adjustments and launch new membership fee initiatives, all while ensuring the department continued to provide the high-quality parks, recreation and cultural experiences residents expect. Her leadership has consistently aligned with the City’s Unmistakable Identity strategic outcome, helping create welcoming spaces, meaningful experiences and a community where all enjoy life and feel at home.

“During the past 10 months, Lindsay has repeatedly demonstrated the steady leadership, operational expertise and collaborative approach needed to lead this department into the future. Her appointment ensures continued stability for the team, which is one of my top priorities,” said City Manager Majed Al-Ghafry.

Hart brings 22 years of municipal parks and recreation leadership experience to the role, including overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, managing complex facilities and leading large, diverse teams. Her experience spans strategic planning, organizational leadership, community partnerships and the daily work of supporting employees who deliver essential services to residents.

She will now lead implementation of the City’s newly adopted Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan, helping ensure future investments continue to reflect community priorities while supporting the long-term sustainability of Lawrence’s parks, programs and cultural amenities.

“I’ve had the privilege of leading this department through two interim appointments, and those experiences have only strengthened my commitment to our staff, our community and the important work we do every day,” Hart said. “I am passionate about the future of Parks, Recreation and Culture, and I look forward to implementing our new Master Plan while continuing to build on the strong foundation our team has created together.”

Hart’s appointment reflects both her extensive professional experience and the confidence she has earned through servant leadership. Throughout her time with the City, she has invested deeply in the department’s success by supporting employees, strengthening operations, building community partnerships and guiding strategic initiatives that improve quality of life for Lawrence residents. Her leadership during periods of transition demonstrated not only her ability to navigate complex challenges, but also her unwavering commitment to the people, places and programs that make Lawrence a vibrant community. Lindsay has a career-long commitment to this work.

Media Contact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.gov

About the City of Lawrence 
The City of Lawrence supports an unmistakably vibrant community with innovative, equitable, transparent and responsible local government. Together, we are creating a community where everyone can enjoy life and feel at home.