A Portage Life in the Spotlight: John Harrison

John Harrison, a native of Granite City, IL, has spent the last 30+ years living and working in Portage, IN. His professional background is dynamic and diverse. He currently serves as the assistant superintendent for the City of Portage Parks and Recreation. However, it was one role in particular that brought him to Portage decades ago.

“I worked for the National Steel Midwest Division; I was transferred here,” Harrison explained.

He has also worked for the American Medical Association and Midway Games. Most of his roles have focused on finance and accounting. However, Harrison also has career development experience—including his current role for the parks. 

Harrison earned his business management degree from Webster University. He later earned his Master’s of Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Not long after Portage Mayor Austin Bonta began his current mayoral term, Harrison came to work for the City of Portage Parks and Recreation. It was Mayor Bonta’s encouragement that prompted Harrison to change roles. Harrison’s diverse background and familiarity with the community are certainly assets to his work with the parks. 

“I think he felt that I would fulfill the needs that were needed at the time for some of the parks in Portage,” Harrison said.

In this role, Harrison helps manage operations, planning, budgeting, and special projects. In total, the City of Portage Parks and Recreation includes 20 trails, parks, and other community facilities like Brookview Park, Community Acres Park, Iron Horse Heritage Trail, Woodland Park Dog Park, and Hannah’s Hope Playground.

One special project that Harrison has assisted with is Miami Park. Formally known as Miami Park Fitness Court – National Fitness Campaign, this is the City of Portage Parks and Recreation’s newest facility. 

“The National Fitness Court includes multiple specialized exercise areas, namely core, squat, push, lunge, pull, agility, and bend. There’s a national fitness court that we had installed there,” Harrison said.

The park’s partnership with the National Fitness Campaign enhances its fitness offering through The Fitness Court Ambassador Program. 

“The Fitness Court Ambassador Program is a national network of passionate people committed to making healthy living accessible in their communities. Whether you’re promoting wellness through community outreach or leading programming on the Fitness Court, you’ll be a positive and informed resource helping others discover the benefits of healthy living through the Fitness Court,” Harrison said.

Outside of work, Harrison spends time with family. He has five grandkids and three great grandchildren. 

Harrison’s work allows him to be highly interactive with the community. With the new Miami Park Fitness Court – National Fitness Campaign and many other facilities to supervise, Harrison will certainly continue to be highly visible and highly involved within Portage.