Maxime Pierre, the City of Little Rock’s Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation, has been named one of National Recreation and Parks Association’s 30 Under 30 best and brightest young professionals in the field.

The organization judged more than 100 nominations from 29 states, one Canadian province and one U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. The selection committee evaluated the nominations on one or more of the following criteria:

• Impacts on the agency’s community and service population
• Contributions to the professional development of the field of parks and recreation
• Innovative ideas, programs and/or research in the field of parks and recreation

As the newly appointed deputy director of parks and recreation with the City of Little Rock, Pierre working on innovative safety measures to reopen City facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to coming to Little Rock, Pierre worked for the City of Asheville (NC) as a recreation facility manager overseeing a senior center. While there he saw opportunities to integrate youth into the facility to create an intergenerational center and to develop equitable programming for low-income youth of color. Pierre also started Asheville’s esports league, reaching more than 80 participants the first weekend after the program launched. 

“I’m not surprised that Maxime has been chosen for this honor,” said John Eckart, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Little Rock. “When we were searching for a deputy director, his innovative ideas stood out. We’re so proud to have him as part of the team and look forward to the impact he’s sure to make on our city.”

About the City of Little Rock’s Response to COVID-19
Residents may visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 for all information about the City’s efforts related to COVID-19, including the newly created Small Business Emergency Assistance Program. Volunteers are needed to assist with the grab-and-go feeding efforts for vulnerable populations, including students and seniors. Sign up at LittleRock.gov/volunteer. The Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund benefits the grab-and-go feeding effort and the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). Donations of PPE are also accepted. Donate here or visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 and click on the Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund button. Follow the City of Little Rock on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @CityLittleRock.