Danae Edwards (left in photo), City of Waukee Recreation Supervisor, was recently honored with the Iowa Park and Recreation Association's 2017 Carole J. Hanson New Professional Award.
This award, given in memoriam of former Association Chair Carole J. Hanson, is a recognition of a professional who exemplifies commitment and exceptional service to the leisure services profession and to the Association. The "New Professional" honor is given each year to a deserving person who has worked in the professional ranks of Parks and Recreation for seven years or less.
Edwards joined the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department as an intern in the spring of 2013 and was hired full-time in October of that same year. Since then, she has been a true asset to the Department, building relationships and growing programs and events throughout the Waukee community. She currently serves as the chair of the IPRA Membership Committee, was instrumental in developing the IPRA Young Professionals Network (YPN) and has served in multiple other ways.
According to Waukee Parks & Recreation Director Matt Jermier, "Danae is an asset to both the Waukee Parks & Recreation Department and to the Iowa Park and Recreation Association. Her drive to do her best and to give back and lend a helping hand on a daily basis has been exciting to witness."
Edwards accepted this award at the Association's Best of the Best Banquet on Wednesday, Mar. 29, 2017.