Joe Schultz, DBA, CPRP is the Director of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services for the County of Santa Cruz, California. Schultz received his Bachelor of Science degree in Community Recreation from Southern Illinois University, his Masters of Arts in Public Administration from Sangamon State University, and his doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) from Northcentral University. In addition to formal degree training, Schultz has pursued further professional development by attending NRPA Executive Development School, NRPA Revenue Resources Management School, and many trainings and workshops during his 35 years of park and recreation experience.
Prior to being hired by the County of Santa Cruz, Schultz was the Deputy Director for the County of Santa Clara, California. Schultz has served as the Executive Director for the Naperville Park District in Naperville, Illinois; the General Manager for Elk Grove Community Services District in Elk Grove, CA; the Community Services Director for the City of Rancho Cucamonga in California; the Director of Parks and Recreation for Deerfield, Illinois; the NRPA Great Lakes Regional Director; and the Director of Parks and Recreation for the Westmont Park District.
As a Certified Park and Recreation Professional, Schultz has published numerous articles in local, state and national publications. In addition, Schultz is a frequent speaker at National, State, and local park and recreation conferences and workshops.
Under Schultz's leadership as Director of Parks and Recreation for the Deerfield Park District, the District won the National Gold Medal; and serving as Director of the Naperville Park District, the Illinois Park District Association was awarded the Distinguished Agency Award to that municipality.
Schultz has served as President of the California Park and Recreation Society District IV and the California Association of Regional Park and Open Space Administrators (CARPOSA). He participated on the NRPA Professional Examination Committee for six years. Schultz was a member of the NRPA's Regional Council and several state committees.
Schultz currently serves as a lecturer at San Jose State University teaching undergraduate courses.
On a personal level, Schultz and his wife Claire (a teacher) have raised five children. Schultz's recreation activities include running, (he has completed twenty marathons), biking, and swimming. Schultz and his family live near the beach in Santa Cruz, California. [updated 12/09]