Schaumburg Park District Board President Bob Schmidt Named IAPD Commissioner of the Year

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Schaumburg Park District Board President Bob Schmidt has been named the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) Commissioner of the Year, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership, service, and dedication to parks and recreation at both the local and statewide level. Schmidt was presented the award today at the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association/Illinois Association of Park District Joint Conference Awards Luncheon.

Schmidt has served on the Schaumburg Board of Park Commissioners for more than 20 years, first joining the board in 2003. Throughout his tenure, he has been a passionate advocate for accessible recreation, environmental stewardship, and innovative park development that enhances quality of life for Schaumburg residents.

“Bob’s leadership has helped shape Schaumburg Park District into the nationally respected organization it is today,” said Tony LaFrenere, Executive Director. “His vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the community have made a lasting impact on our parks, facilities, and programs.”

During Schmidt’s service, Schaumburg Park District achieved Distinguished Accredited Agency status three times—in 2010, 2016, and 2022—and earned national accreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA).

Schmidt played a key role in the installation of turf soccer fields at Olympic Park, Schaumburg’s premier athletic complex. Completed in 2008, the fields extended playing seasons, attracted regional and national tournaments, and generated economic activity for the community—helping position Olympic Park as a destination for competitive athletics.

At the state level, Schmidt currently serves as an IAPD Trustee and remains actively involved on several committees, including the Distinguished Accredited Agency Committee, Joint Conference Committee, and Exhibitors Committee. Through these roles, he supports education, collaboration, and excellence in park district governance across Illinois.

Beyond parks and recreation, Schmidt is deeply committed to community service. He volunteers with the Township of Schaumburg Food Pantry and Senior Center, serves on the Village of Schaumburg’s Sister City Commission, and chairs the Village’s Bikeways Committee. His work in bicycle planning contributed to Schaumburg earning Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community status.

A former educator with 31 years of experience, Schmidt brings a collaborative, thoughtful approach to leadership—valuing listening, consensus-building, and fiscal responsibility. His guidance has helped the District adapt to evolving community needs while maintaining strong financial stewardship.

The IAPD Commissioner of the Year Award recognizes commissioners whose service exemplifies leadership, innovation, and dedication to the mission of parks and recreation. Schmidt’s contributions have left a lasting legacy in Schaumburg and across the state.