Wheeling Park District Executive Director announces retirement after 33 years of service

After 33 years of dedicated service to the community, Jan Buchs, executive director of the Wheeling Park District, has announced plans to retire effective May 29.

Since joining the District in 1993 as the first full-time Aquatic Manager and advancing to the executive director in 2002, Buchs has played an instrumental role in shaping the parks, programs and facilities that Wheeling residents and guests enjoy today. Over the course of more than three decades of leadership, the district has expanded recreation opportunities, enhanced parks and spaces, built award-winning facilities and strengthened community relationships, positioning the agency as a cornerstone of Wheeling.

Under Buchs’ leadership, the district completed numerous capital improvement projects, expanded recreation programming, improved financial stability and cultivated a people-driven focus on guest service excellence. From park development projects at Heritage Park and all Wheeling neighborhood parks, and renovations at the Community Recreation Center, Chevy Chase Country Club and the Traditions golf course, to innovative programming and community events, Buchs’ vision and steady guidance have left a lasting impact.

“Serving this community for the past 33 years has been the honor of my professional life,” Buchs said. “I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together and grateful to the Board of Commissioners, staff, volunteers, and residents who make this District exceptional.”

Board President Sue Stein expressed appreciation for Buchs’ service: “On behalf of the Board and our community, we extend our deepest gratitude for her decades of leadership. The growth and success of our park district are a direct reflection of her commitment, integrity, leadership, and passion for parks and recreation.”