Glynn County Employee Receives Georgia Recreation and Park Association Award
From left to right, are Lance Adamson (GRPA District 2 Commissioner), Paris Brown, and Tiffany Brain (Recreation Division Manager). (Provided photo)
Paris Brown, Recreation Manager for Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department, received the 2026 Georgia Recreation and Park Association District 2 Carl Hager Programmers Award at the district awards banquet held October 14, 2026 in Ware County.
The Carl Hager Programmers Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding and lasting contributions to the programming aspect of the recreation profession in the second district. This is the highest award the district programmers can bestow on one of its members.
Paris began working for Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department in 2017 as a seasonal beach lifeguard. She was promoted to a full-time Recreation Specialist in 2018 where she continued to work with beach operations on St. Simons Island and athletics on the mainland. In 2020, Paris was promoted to her current position as Recreation Manager with oversight of the Beach Operations Division while continuing to work with mainland athletic leagues during the school year.
“Paris has been integral in the advancement of beach operations and beach education in our area,” said Tiffany Brain, Recreation Division Manager. “She does a tremendous job recruiting and training the 23-member seasonal beach lifeguard team. Her proactive approach in leading her team has significantly reduced the number of major water rescues the team has responded to in recent years.”
In Fall 2025, Paris completed a rigorous and intensive EMT certification program and is now a licensed EMT in the State of Georgia. In addition to increasing her skills and knowledge in handling emergency situations, her certification allows her to use a LUCAS3 Chest Compression device to provide automatic chest compressions for patients in cardiac arrest.
“This award is a direct reflection on Paris’ hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence,” stated Lisa Gurganus, Director of Recreation and Parks. “Our department and community are fortunate to have Paris leading the Beach Operations Division.”
