New executive director in Wheaton.

Robert G. Robinson, former president and CEO of the National Sports Center for the Disabled, was named the new executive director of the Wheaton Park District. Robinson replaces Robert J. Dunsmuir, who retired in January after 31 years of service with the Wheaton Park District.

"The Board is extremely pleased to have Rob on board," said Jeff Cook, president of the Wheaton Park District Board of Commissioners. "I also know from talking with several senior staff over the last few weeks that Rob is taking exactly the leadership role we expected and wanted for our district. We are very excited about our future."

Robinson's professional experience in parks and recreation includes service as executive director for the North Jeffco Parks and Recreation District in Colorado, which encompasses 60 square miles with a population of 110,000. At North Jeffco, he spearheaded efforts to design, fund and build the Apex Center, a 168,000-square-foot recreation/entertainment center.

Before his work for North Jeffco, Rob was the executive director of the Vail Park District where he was responsible for the prestigious Vail Golf Club, home of the Gerry Ford Pro/Am golf tournament. He has received numerous professional awards including the NRPA Professional Excellence Award (1998); Colorado Park and Recreation Association President's Award (1995); and many special district awards.