Robinson steps up to become new Parks and Recreation director

For Lucy Robinson, the parks and recreation department provides residents with far more than workouts, programs and professional development opportunities - it is the "lifeblood of a healthy community," a space where Wrangellites of all ages and from all walks of life can come together to chat, sweat and enjoy their shared love for recreation.

After attending open swim as a child, lifeguarding as a teen and working as recreation coordinator as an adult, Robinson is ready to take charge of the department as the new director.

Robinson accepted the offer Feb. 10 and will officially step into the role on March 15, as the previous director, Kate Thomas, transitions to her new job as the borough's economic development director. Thomas, who was involved in the hiring process, said extending the offer to Robinson was "the right choice and an easy choice."

Robinson "pretty much lives and breathes recreation," she continued. "She doesn't just promote it." And since she's already involved in many of the department's decisions, the hire will make for a smooth transition of leadership, explained Thomas.

In her previous position as recreation coordinator, Robinson planned the department's programming, worked with its volunteers, managed its social media presence and developed its schedules. As director, her responsibilities will expand to include budgeting, personnel decisions, facilities maintenance and advocating for the department before the borough assembly.

"It's not only our buildings, but also our parks, green spaces and trails. So there is a lot to chew on and it can be a little intimidating," she said. "But Wrangell can be an incredibly supportive community ... when it comes to Parks and Recreation."

She's looking forward to expanding her knowledge base and embracing the position's wide array of new responsibilities. "I appreciate this position for the fact that every day, it's different," she said, from the conditions outside to the people who come to work out. Even though Wrangell Parks and Rec has been a part of her life since childhood, the job remains full of surprises.

She's also committed to fostering the department's supportive culture and commitment to youth mentorship. "I want to continue that positivity," said Robinson. "And I want to continue to engage our youth and get them working here and get them that experience, because hands-on experience is crucial." Young employees at Parks and Recreation learn far more than just fitness - they develop professional skills, learn to communicate with patrons and shoulder the responsibility of rescuing swimmers if an accident were to occur.

Robinson benefited from the hands-on experiences the department offers when she was in high school, so she understands the impact they can have on Wrangell's youth. Former Parks and Recreation Director Ron Koch pulled her out of class when she was 15 and asked her to teach swim lessons at the community pool. "I think I learned a lot of skills through my initial experience with Parks and Recreation and that was probably where I developed a big interest in recreation ... that really lit the fire for me."

Robinson's passion for community, fitness and outdoor sports has lasted throughout her life as she continues to run, lift weights, swim and explore Alaska's landscapes. After a brief sojourn in the Lower 48 during her early 20s, she returned to Wrangell to work for Alaska Crossings, where she met Thomas. She rejoined Parks and Recreation as the recreation coordinator in 2018 and has about 10 combined years of experience in the department.