Westchester County Parks Department Receives Four Prestigious Awards
June 24, 2026 – The Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) has earned four distinguished honors from two leading parks and recreation organizations, recognizing the department’s outstanding leadership, innovation and commitment to serving residents throughout Westchester County.
The National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) presented former PRC Commissioner Kathleen O’Connor with its Outstanding Public Official Award, which recognizes nominated, elected or appointed officials who are strong advocates for parks and recreation and whose efforts benefit NACPRO member agencies nationwide. With nearly five decades of continuous service to Westchester County, O’Connor has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive and nationally recognized parks system.
NACPRO also honored PRC Director of Recreation Kevin Cook with its Professional Fellow Award, which recognizes exemplary professionals currently employed in parks and recreation. Since joining PRC in 2006, Cook has played a vital role in developing and overseeing a comprehensive countywide recreation program that serves more than one million residents of all ages and abilities.
The Westchester Recreation and Park Society (WRAPS) recognized PRC Acting Commissioner Peter Tartaglia with the Joseph E. Curtis Achievement Award. The honor is presented to a WRAPS member who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in recreation, parks or conservation administration, program supervision, leadership or facility development. During more than four decades with PRC, Tartaglia has consistently exceeded expectations and made lasting contributions to the department and the communities it serves.
Also, WRAPS awarded Lasdon Public Gardens and Veterans Memorial in Katonah the Matt Dolan Innovative Program and Award Grant for The American Civil War: A War of Firsts. The exhibit featured interactive displays exploring groundbreaking innovations in warfare, medicine, weaponry and transportation that emerged during the Civil War. The exhibit was on display from May through December 2025 and welcomed visitors of all ages to learn about a pivotal period in American history.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “These achievement awards once again demonstrate why Westchester County is such a great place to live and work. They reflect the extraordinary dedication, professionalism and innovation that define our Parks Department. Their efforts ensure that our parks remain a source of pride, beauty and community for residents throughout the County. Congratulations to all whose hard work earned this well-deserved recognition.”
Acting Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Peter Tartaglia said: “All of us at PRC are committed to providing the highest level of service to our residents and visitors. We remain dedicated to innovation, equity and excellence as we continue to enhance County facilities, programs and services. These awards are a testament to the talented team members who work every day to serve the public with passion, professionalism and integrity.”