Tristan Leonhard Named Valpo Parks Director

Mayor Jon Costas has announced the appointment of Tristan Leonhard as Parks Director for Valpo Parks. 

“Tristan’s expertise, leadership experience, and dedication to community engagement make him an outstanding choice to guide our award-winning Valpo Parks Department,” said Costas. “We are delighted to formally appoint him to this important role serving our city.” 

Leonhard most recently served as Acting Director and previously as Assistant Director for Valpo Parks. He joined the department in 2023 after serving as Director of Campus Recreation & Well-Being at Valparaiso University. Since joining Valpo Parks, Leonhard has played a key role in advancing major initiatives, including the $10 million Parks RePLAY initiative and the development of Valpo REC, which is transforming the 16-acre former McGill factory site into a multi-generational recreation and enrichment center near downtown. 

Leonhard holds both a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in sports administration from Valparaiso University. 

Valpo Parks manages 23 park facilities and 31 miles of trails and pathways, offering extensive programming throughout the city. In 2024, the department assumed management of the Memorial Opera House and launched RePLAY — a community-driven effort delivering $10 million in improvements to 10 signature city parks. The Valpo Parks system is nationally recognized and has earned numerous awards for community impact, innovation, and professional excellence. 

To learn more about Valpo Parks, its properties, programs, and projects, visit ValpoParks.org.