Glen Ellyn Park District names new executive director

After a national search, the Glen Ellyn Park District didn't have to look far to find its new executive director.

Dave Thommes, deputy director of the Oak Brook Park District, will take over the top leadership role in the Glen Ellyn parks system.

Thommes succeeds Dave Harris, who retired after 12 years in charge. He is set to join the district on Aug. 8 and brings more than 16 years of experience in parks and recreation.

"Over the past century, the Glen Ellyn Park District has provided exceptional programming, events, and services to its residents and participants," Thommes said in a statement. "Being selected as the new director of this agency is a great honor and privilege for me."

He comes to the post as the district works on "many capital improvements." Voters last year approved renovation projects at Sunset Pool, Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center and decades-old park sites.

In Oak Brook, Thommes oversaw a wide range of operations, including programming and facilities. During his tenure, the district received the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management from the National Recreation and Park Association in 2015 and is a finalist again this year.