Nikiya Cherry has been hired as the new assistant director of Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation after 19 years of experience working with the department.
Before beginning her career as a recreation specialist for Durham Parks and Recreation in 2004, she served as a camp counselor starting in 1999. After making the move to Chapel Hill to become the recreation manager in 2018, Cherry managed programming curriculum, teen initiatives, after-school programs and youth summer camps.
“I've always had a passion for parks and recreation,” she said. “I've been doing it since I was in my teenage years.”
In her new position, Cherry will be supervising day-to-day operations such as service provision, facility operations and community involvement. Staff in the Hargraves Community Center and Chapel Hill Community Center will report to her.
Cherry said she came to Chapel Hill for a change in environment from Durham and because it was still within reach of her family.
“One particular goal that I always focus on, that's kind of been my driving force, is to make sure that everyone is welcome in our spaces, make sure that everyone feels like they are part of our overall vision,” she said.
Cherry said that her goals for the department include becoming accredited, completing their master plan and becoming a better agency overall in the next few years.
“I've used Chapel Hill parks and rec all my life," Ana Barton, a Chapel Hill community member, said. "We go there for birthdays and celebrations, and it’s exciting that they’re getting updated and renovated for more kids and more families to enjoy."
