Meet Robert Wilson and Annette Deghand, Recreation Operations Managers in Parks, Recreation and Culture! Through their leadership and decades of service, they help provide programs, facilities, and recreation opportunities that keep our community active, connected, and engaged.
Meet our fourth and fifth employees for Employee Appreciation Week, Annette Deghand and Robert Wilson, Recreation Operations Managers in Lawrence Kansas Parks and Recreation!
Robert Wilson has 27 years of service, and he has grown through multiple roles supporting recreation programs ...citywide. He oversees key divisions at Sports Pavilion Lawrence, helping deliver fitness, sports, and recreation opportunities that strengthen community health and connection.
“I love the fitness and recreational opportunities that we provide for the community. Providing a safe space where youth and adults can come together to create connections,” said Robert.
Annette Deghand has served the department since 1991, growing her career through decades of dedicated public service. She supports daily operations and long-term planning across multiple recreation divisions, helping ensure high-quality programs and welcoming spaces for the community.
“Witnessing the meaningful impact our programs and facilities have on our patrons... these experiences reinforce the value of the work we do and inspire me to continue striving for excellence," said Annette.
Through their leadership and decades of service, they help provide programs, facilities, and recreation opportunities that keep our community active, connected, and engaged.
Compost Facility season is back, Lawrence 🌿🚛
Our first Self-Load Saturday is this Saturday, March 7, and the Compost Facility will be open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for self-load and drop-off.
Here’s what to know before you roll in:
🌱 Compost and woodchips are available ...for Lawrence residents only (proof of residency required)
🪣 Self-loaded compost or woodchips (>20 gallons or less): $10
ℹ️ Compost and woodchips are intended for residential use and are not for commercial applications
If you’re getting your yard ready for spring, this is one of the easiest ways to stock up and give your garden a boost.
Learn more before you go ➡️ lawrenceks.gov/compost-facility
Now, for our third employee for Employee Appreciation Week, meet Leah Pringle, a Senior Financial Specialist in the Finance Department! She helps keep utility billing accurate for 32,000+ households, and we truly appreciate her dedication to serving our community.
Now, for our third employee for Employee Appreciation Week, meet Leah Pringle, a Senior Financial Specialist in the Finance Department! From her start in the Douglas County Treasurer’s Office to her current role, Leah helps ensure the City’s utilities run efficiently for over 32,000 ...households.
“Every day brings a new challenge, and I enjoy finding solutions that keep our community’s services running smoothly,” said Leah.
Leah manages monthly billing, resolves daily challenges, and supports revenue generation for the city. Her work continues to make a difference in our community, and we truly value her service!
This week is Women in Construction Week, and we’re celebrating the women who help build Lawrence. 👷♀️💛
From construction and inspection to engineering, design, planning, and project management, women play a critical role in delivering the infrastructure our community relies... on every day. Their expertise, leadership, and problem-solving help keep projects moving safely, efficiently, and with long-term value for residents.
Thank you to all the women in construction and the built environment who contribute to better streets, stronger systems, and a stronger Lawrence!
Get ready, Lawrence! We're officially 100 days away from the first match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On June 11, Mexico will take on South Africa in Mexico City. ⚽️
Check out our website for more information on how we're preparing for this summer's tournament: ...lawrence2026.com
Celebrating our second employee for Employee Appreciation Week! Meet Whitney Gehrke, Master Mechanic II with MSO, who keeps the City’s fleet running safely and efficiently. With master-level certifications and a passion for problem-solving, he services everything from small cars to fire trucks, ...helping keep City departments running smoothly. We appreciate his dedication to keeping our community moving.
Celebrating our second employee for Employee Appreciation Week! Meet Whitney Gehrke, Master Mechanic II with MSO, who keeps the City’s fleet running safely and efficiently. With master-level certifications and a passion for problem-solving, he services everything from small cars to fire trucks, ...helping keep City departments running smoothly. We appreciate his dedication to keeping our community moving.