John D. Jenkins serves as the 8th Director of Dallas Park and Recreation, one of the largest and most dynamic municipal park systems in the nation. He leads a dedicated team of over 1,600 employees and oversees a general fund operating budget exceeding $125 million, alongside an annual capital budget of more than $40 million. Under his leadership, the department is proud to be CAPRA accredited and recognized as an award-winning organization. As a public-centered executive, Director Jenkins is deeply committed to fostering equitable access and delivering exceptional park experiences that enhance quality of life and strengthen communities throughout Dallas. Inspired by his visionary leadership, the department proudly embraces the motto: “Bringing Communities Together.”

Crystal R. Ross serves as Senior Deputy Director for Dallas Park and Recreation, for one of the nation’s largest municipal park systems. Crystal provides executive leadership across all departmental functions, including Recreation Services, Administration and Business Services, and Citywide Athletics, Reservations and Events. Mrs. Ross plays a critical role in strategic planning, policy implementation, and ensuring operational excellence to deliver high-quality, equitable park and recreation services citywide.

As Deputy Director, Ryan O’Connor leads the Partnership and Strategic Initiatives team, which oversees partnership management with key collaborators such as the Arboretum, Zoo, Klyde Warren Park, and others. His team manages grants, donations to the park system, marketing efforts, and special projects including the national CAPRA accreditation. Ryan plays a vital role in strengthening community relationships and advancing the department’s strategic goals.

As Deputy Director of Park Maintenance and Operations, M. Renee’ Johnson leads a dedicated team committed to caring for the city’s most treasured spaces—including signature sites like Bachman Skate Park, White Rock Lake, downtown plazas, and the unique landscapes of parks such as Judge Charles R. Rose Community Park. These dynamic spaces bring communities together, foster connection, and contribute to the unique character that makes the Dallas Park System truly special. Under her leadership, the PMO Team works diligently to preserve the beauty, safety, and usability of Dallas’s vast network of parks, trails, and public spaces. Thanks to their efforts, residents and visitors alike can enjoy well-maintained trails, playgrounds, green spaces, and vibrant recreational areas throughout the city.

Rachael Berry serves as Assistant Director of Administration and Business Services for Dallas Park and Recreation. Rachael is responsible for overseeing the department’s annual budget, financial operations, procurement, contract oversight, accounts payable/receivable, internal controls, and information technology. In addition, she leads efforts related to the department’s Environmental Management System and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

Steven Baker serves as Assistant Director of Recreation Services for Dallas Park and Recreation. Steven oversees the management, supervision, and coordination of a wide range of leisure opportunities for residents of all ages. These include athletics, arts, fitness, aquatics, and cultural programs delivered through recreation centers. Steven is responsible for the daily operations of Recreation Centers, (Old) City Park, Outdoor Adventures @ Samuell Farm and the Senior Program Division and Teens Organized and Prepared for Success (TOPS)

Assistant Director of Planning and Facilities, Cameron Loos, oversees the department’s vision and infrastructure, and plays a pivotal role in shaping vibrant, functional, and inspiring public spaces. Overseeing a wide spectrum of responsibilities including strategic project planning, initiating innovative designs, executing construction initiatives, as well as ensuring that our facilities and equipment operate efficiently in order to serve the community with excellence. In addition to managing capital bond projects that drive long-term growth and improvement, the Assistant Director champions the integration of public art into our parks—bringing creativity and culture into everyday spaces.

As the General Manager of Fair Park, Brett is responsible for the daily operations, and strategic direction of the 277-acre historic entertainment, cultural, and fairground complex ensuring the venues operate efficiently, and continues to serve as a community and cultural hub for Dallas residents and visitors. Brett is responsible for implementing longterm strategic plans, daily park operations, event and venue oversight, finacial management, community relations, as well as capital projects and historic preservation.