Laure L. Kosey, Ph.D., CPRE has served as the Executive Director of the Oak Brook Park District since 2010. She has been an active member of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) since 2000. Currently, she serves on the IPRA Board of Directors, is a CAPRA Visitor, and has presented at NRPA, and IAPD/IPRA conferences. She is also a past Chair of the IPRA Administration & Finance Section.
Under Dr. Kosey’s leadership, the Oak Brook Park District has achieved significant milestones, including recognition as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency and earning CAPRA accreditation and reaccreditation. The District was awarded the prestigious National Gold Medal for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management in both 2015 and 2025.
Notable accomplishments during her tenure include the creation of The Sandlot, a $1 million all-inclusive playground, and the successful passage of a $17.9 million referendum to purchase 34 acres of open space from the McDonald’s Corporation. In 2021, the District received the IPRA Champions for Change Award.
Dr. Kosey has been recognized for her professional contributions at both the local and state levels, earning the IPRA Chair Award, the Section Distinguished Member Award, and the Chamber’s Impact Leadership Award.
She holds a B.A. in Financial Management and Marketing Management from the University of St. Thomas, an M.S. in Athletic Administration from St. Cloud State University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum Studies from DePaul University.