News Summary
Dana Creech Youst has been appointed as the executive director of the Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority, effective August 18. Youst, currently director of Parks and Recreation in Kenly, NC, brings over 20 years of government experience. Her role involves enhancing recreational offerings in Greater Williamsburg through collaboration with local stakeholders and crafting inclusive programming aimed at driving tourism and community engagement. Youst’s leadership is seen as crucial for upgrading facilities and addressing the needs of residents and visitors.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Dana Creech Youst has been appointed as the executive director of the Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority (HTRFA), with the appointment effective starting Monday, August 18. This decision follows a nationwide selection process that aimed to find a candidate who would enhance recreational offerings in the Greater Williamsburg area.
Youst currently serves as the director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Kenly, North Carolina, a role she has held since March 2023. With over 20 years of government experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the HTRFA. Her impressive background in parks and recreation positions her well to manage the daily operations of the authority effectively.
As the executive director, Youst will be responsible for acting as a liaison between the HTRFA Board, contractors, and the Parks and Recreation staff from the City of Williamsburg, James City County, and York County. This collaborative role will allow her to promote unity and enhance communication among various stakeholders involved in recreational facilities in the area.
Youst’s role with the HTRFA is part-time, allowing her to focus her efforts and craft a strategic vision for recreational programming. She has expressed a passion for utilizing recreational programming to drive tourism, stimulate economic growth, and create inclusive opportunities for the community. This commitment aligns with the HTRFA’s mission to improve and expand recreational facilities in Greater Williamsburg.
Andrew O. Trivette, the Williamsburg City Manager and chair of the HTRFA, has expressed confidence in Youst’s abilities. He believes that her experience and vision will greatly contribute to the growth and enhancement of recreational offerings in the area.
The Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority plays a significant role in managing and promoting recreational resources and facilities within the Historic Triangle region, which includes Williamsburg, James City County, and York County. The HTRFA is dedicated to ensuring that residents and visitors alike have access to quality recreational opportunities that enrich their lives.
The appointment of Youst comes at a crucial time for the HTRFA as it seeks to broaden its reach and improve its services. With her leadership, the authority aims to not only maintain but also upgrade existing facilities and develop new recreational programs that appeal to a diverse population.
The Greater Williamsburg area is known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, and recreational facilities play a key role in attracting tourists. With Youst at the helm, there is optimism that the HTRFA will leverage its resources to promote tourism and engage local communities through various recreational initiatives.
The transition to Youst’s leadership will be closely monitored as the HTRFA embarks on new projects and enhancements. The community remains hopeful that her extensive background in parks and recreation will lead to innovative programming and improved facilities that meet the needs of all residents and visitors in the Historic Triangle region.
In summary, Dana Creech Youst’s appointment as executive director of the Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority marks a new chapter for the organization. With her dedication to fostering inclusive and engaging recreational programs, and her experience in the field, the HTRFA is poised to make significant strides in enhancing the recreational landscape of the Greater Williamsburg area.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Historic Triangle Recreational Facilities Authority Announces New Executive Director
- Wikipedia: Recreation
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sports Centers
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Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.