By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The contract to become the next Great Bend Recreation Commission Executive Director was offered to Chris Umphres this past Monday.
Going into his
17th year with the Recreation Commission, Umphres will replace Diann
Henderson. Henderson has set her retirement date for Oct. 31.
"I appreciate the board's faith in hiring me," said Umphres. "I'm very excited to continue the strong tradition that the Great Bend Rec has in this community. Diann has done a tremendous job over the years in the role as director, and I have learned a lot."
Umphres expects a smooth transition when he takes over the director position
Nov. 1.
Growing up, Umphres always considered recreation to be sports. Throughout the years, he has grown to find out recreation looks
differently to everyone.
"Once I was hired at GBRC, arts and crafts, leisure activities and down to the playgrounds have opened my eyes," said Umphres. "Recreation is different for everybody in the community. It's neat to watch what everybody's vision on what recreation is. I think I have a hold on that and hope to keep going."
The Great Bend Recreation Commission Board approved a three-year contract for
Umphres.
A retirement celebration for Henderson will he held Oct. 21 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at the Activity Center on 18th Street.