Blue Valley Rec is proud to share the exciting news that Executive Director Shane DeWald has been appointed to the Fort Hays State University (FHSU) Board of Trustees. As a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) with more than two decades of leadership, Shane has helped expand parks and recreation access in Overland Park and beyond by building programs that keep families active, connected, and welcomed at every age.
Why this appointment matters for community recreation
DeWald believes every resident should have a clear path to move more, play more, and belong. Consequently, his leadership at Blue Valley Rec focuses on inclusive programming, equitable access, and smart growth. That means youth and adults can find their fit across sports, aquatics, arts, and fitness. His selection to the FHSU Board of Trustees recognizes that commitment to community health, engagement, and lifelong recreation.
“FHSU changed the trajectory of my life,” said Shane DeWald. “Serving on the Board of Trustees is an honor—and a chance to connect higher education with community recreation. Together, we can strengthen student experience, workforce readiness, and public-service partnerships that improve lives.”
A parks & recreation leader shaped by Kansas
Shane holds a bachelor’s degree from FHSU (2001) in business administration and physical education and a master’s in sports administration from Wichita State University. His expertise spans sports and recreation management, strategic planning, and community partnership development for skills he uses daily to align facilities, programs, and people around BVRC’s mission.
From the track to the trustees
Before leading recreation in Overland Park, Shane competed as an FHSU pole vaulter on the Tigers’ track and field team. That athlete’s mindset of working hard to reach goals still drives his work today. DeWald’s philosophy is plan boldly, collaborate deeply, and measure results by healthier, more connected communities.
What’s next
Shane will continue serving as Executive Director at BVRC while contributing his parks and recreation perspective to FHSU governance. As a result, expect more innovative programming, stronger community partnerships, and a shared focus on healthy, inclusive, and active communities across Kansas.