An Indiana State University alumnus is receiving national recognition for his work in parks and recreation. Chase Ellis has been elected a fellow of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), one of the highest professional honors in the parks, recreation and conservation field.
Ellis was inducted into the academy Sept. 30 at an awards banquet. The same evening, Nathan Schaumleffel, associate professor of political science in Indiana State’s College of Arts and Sciences, was also elected a fellow. Schaumleffel said Ellis was a former student of his.
Ellis earned a master’s degree in recreation and sport management, with an emphasis in public administration, in 2010. He is the director of Parks and Recreation for the town of Trophy Club, Texas, and has more than 20 years of leadership experience in municipal, county, university and national parks and recreation organizations.
During his career, Ellis has led the planning, design and implementation of recreation centers, aquatic facilities, nature parks, trails, playgrounds and destination amenities.
“I’m so proud to have been inducted with my former student, Chase,” Schaumleffel said. “He’s been such an incredible ambassador for both Indiana State and public park and recreation administration.”
Membership in AAPRA is determined through a rigorous nomination and peer-review process and is limited to 150 active members, no more than 25 of whom can be educators.
Candidates must demonstrate a distinguished record of professional achievement, leadership, service to the profession and meaningful contributions to parks, recreation, conservation, tourism, sports management or related fields.