News

County hires new parks and rec director

Carleen Dixon

By Bill Moss, Published: October 24, 2017

Henderson County has hired away Transylvania County's parks and recreation director.

Carleen Dixon, of Brevard, will join the team at Henderson County Parks and Recreation beginning Nov. 27, the Henderson County manager's office annnounced.

Dixon holds a bachelor’s degree in natural recreation and tourism from Colorado State University. She is also a certified parks and recreation executive, the highest level of certification from the National Parks and Recreation Association. She has worked in the parks and recreation field since 1999, most recently for Transylvania County as director.

“Transylvania County appreciates all that Ms. Dixon has contributed professionally during her time with the county," Transylvania County Manager Jaime Laughter said. "Her enthusiasm for Parks and Recreation is inspiring and we know she will be an asset in her new role at Henderson County. We hate to lose her from our organization, but we are excited for her to take the next step in her career in our region. It couldn’t be a better situation to have her serving our sister county next door."

“I am very excited to be joining the Henderson County team," Dixon said. "The County has great natural resources and an amazing group of people to work with. I feel blessed to have this opportunity and look forward to all the great things to come for Henderson County."

Henderson County Manager Steve Wyatt said: “We received a good response from qualified candidates for the position. Carleen rose to the forefront of the group through the process and was the Selection Committee’s unanimous recommendation to me. My meeting with her, and our subsequent conversation regarding the needs and potential of the department, led me to the same conclusion. She can be an asset to the organization and the community for years to come. We look forward to working with her.”