Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Director Chris Stice has been elected a Fellow of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, joining an organization limited to 150 active members.

Stice was inducted Sept. 30 during the academy’s annual reception and awards dinner in Philadelphia, held in conjunction with the 2026 National Recreation and Park Association Conference, according to a Hamilton County announcement.

The honor recognizes professional achievement, leadership and service in parks, recreation and conservation. Members are selected through nominations and peer review.

Stice has spent 30 years with Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. During that time, he has helped lead the acquisition and development of a county park system that grew from 200 acres to more than 1,800 acres, according to the county.

His work has included supporting a 44,000-square-foot indoor archery complex, year-round camping at White River Campground, development of the Seven Streams Park and Bur Oak Bend properties, and expansion of Potter’s Bridge Park and the Nation’s Trail.

Stice said his goal has been to create experiences families remember.

“My goal has always been to create places where our community can experience what I call ‘mantle moments’, memories so meaningful that a photograph of that experience earns a place on the fireplace mantle at home,” Stice said in the announcement.

“Whether it’s a child’s first fishing trip, a family gathering or a quiet moment connecting with nature, our parks provide the setting for stories people cherish for a lifetime,” he said.

Stice’s professional service extends beyond Hamilton County. He has chaired the National Recreation and Park Association’s National Conference Program Committee and served on the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials board and Legislative Committee.

He also has served as president of the Indiana Park and Recreation Association board and the Great Lakes Park Training Institute board.

Founded in 1980, the academy supports leadership, research, education and mentoring in parks, recreation and conservation administration.