Naperville Park District

Daniel Betts, Executive Director

Daniel Betts joined the Naperville Park District as Executive Director in March 2008. He came to Naperville from the Denver Parks and Recreation System, having served as the Deputy Manager of Recreation and Facility Services since 2004. During 2007, Betts simultaneously held the post of Acting Deputy Manager of Parks and Planning.

While in Denver, he was responsible for the management of numerous assets across the city, including 29 recreation centers, indoor and outdoor pools and 283 athletic fields. Betts is currently responsible for managing Naperville Park District resources including 130 parks, two 18-hole, championship golf courses, 65 playgrounds, 24 basketball courts, a multitude of athletic fields, numerous special events and 1,200 full-time and seasonal employees.

Originally from the Chicago area, Betts, who also worked for the Chicago Park District for a period of six years, possesses experience in operational and strategic management, long-range planning and leadership. He holds an undergraduate degree in sociology and a graduate degree in educational administration from Western Illinois University and a MBA from the University of Phoenix.

Betts is passionate about working with people and enjoys spending time mentoring youth. He is an active member of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA), National Forum for Blacks in Public Administration, The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the Alliance for Innovation, Transforming Local Government.