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LEWISTON – Recreation Coordinator Alyssa Clark was recently designated recipient of the Maine Recreation and Park Association’s Dr. Bill Eckart Young Professional of the Year Award.
The award is given to a Maine rising parks and recreation professional who has displayed outstanding community performance level through innovative programming, partnerships and civic involvement.
“I am truly honored to receive the Dr. Bill Eckart Young Professional of the Year Award,” Clark said. “It was a great surprise and motivates me to continue working hard to give the city of Lewiston quality programs to enjoy for years to come.”
Clark has been with the department since August 2021.
Mayor Carl L. Sheline and Recreation Director Nicole Welch recognized Clark at the March 21 City Council meeting.
Welch noted that Clark has developed valuable partnerships that have resulted in low-cost and free programs for residents, supporting the department’s mission of increased organized recreation and leisure access. “Her approach to offering both traditional and non-traditional programs support a welcoming environment where families can confidently receive an organized, fun, safe program,” Welch said.
Sheline said, “Alyssa’s infectious smile and can-do attitude are a winning combination for Lewiston Rec and our city’s kids. I’m glad she’s on the team.”
Clark is a programmer and administrator who oversees everything from the players from pre-k to grade 12 in the basketball program, to the Safe Sitter Program graduates, to the Lewiston Rec summer campers. She oversees more than 40 volunteer coaches and helps supervise up to 40 part-time employees. Clark “weaves positive municipal recreation and leisure traditions into the city of Lewiston,” officials said.
She is a 2015 Endicott College graduate, with a degree in sports management. Before coming to Lewiston, she worked for the Gorham Recreation Department and Saco Parks and Recreation.
“I’ve been a parks and rec kid my whole life, from participating in youth sports and summer camps to my first job being a summer camp counselor,” Clark said. “After that, there was no turning back. My family, past coworkers, mentors, colleagues, and my current Lewiston Recreation team have all helped me become the professional I am today. I am very thankful.”
Welch said, “Alyssa is an advocate for recreation, a cheerleader for her colleagues, and an absolute joy to work with every day. If the past 18 months are her getting her feet wet, then the greater Lewiston community is in for a treat over the coming years.”
