Three with ties to the Blue Valley Recreation Commission were honored by the Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA). Rec Complex manager Steve Herrig, sports programmer Brice Soeken, and former commissioner Kim Galbraith were recognized at the KRPA Awards Luncheon on Jan. 29 for their outstanding contributions and achievements.
Herrig was honored as a Distinguished Professional. During his 26 years in the field, he has tirelessly been a champion of parks and recreation. As Rec Complex manager for Blue Valley Rec, he oversees sport leagues with upwards of 5,000 youth and 1,000 adult participants. He is engaged in making a difference and growing the profession by being actively involved in KRPA and coordinating the Tomorrow’s Leaders School and the Professional Development Committee.
KRPA awarded Galbraith the Distinguished Commission Member award for her enthusiasm, passion, and advocacy for parks and recreation. After being raised to understand the value of parks and recreation, Kim committed to making a positive impact for her community through service. Galbraith’s involvement with Blue Valley Rec spans more than 10 years. She served two years on the facilities and planning committee before an eight-year term appointment as a commissioner, two of which she was spent as commission chair. She now sits on the KRPA board as a citizen board member.
A rising star in the field of parks and recreation, Brice Soeken was named the Distinguished New Professional. He is instrumental in growing KRPA’s Young Professionals and plans the YP Summit aimed at helping students and young professionals make the most out of their time at the annual KRPA Conference. Soeken joined Blue Valley Rec six months ago and was co-nominated with his previous employer – Baldwin City Recreation.
“Having a statewide organization with hundreds of members recognize these three Blue Valley Recreation members is a testament to the job we do every day,” said Blue Valley Rec executive director Steve Baysinger. “Their accomplishments are a reflection of the Commission’s vision of Enriching Lives, Strengthening a Spirit of Community.”
