Matt Szytz honored with Illinois Park and Recreation Association Vision Award

HUNTLEY – The Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) annually recognizes one individual from throughout the state with the Vision Award. The Vision Award recognizes notable involvement and participation within the IPRA Marketing and Communication Division and is granted to a hard worker who truly cares about their community. The award is voted on by peers of the nominated candidate.

This year, the winner of the Vision Award was Matt Szytz, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Huntley Park District.

“As the Director of Marketing and Communications, I am directly responsible for the marketing and advertising efforts and media relations for the park district. I assist in strategic planning and accreditation initiatives, which help determine the direction and future development of the park district,” he said.

Szytz has been in his current role for six years and has witnessed growth both within his department and the Huntley community.

“Winning the Vision Award means a great deal to me. The fact that my peers from across the state view me as a forward-thinker seeking to advance the purpose and professionalism of the industry, is very humbling,” stated Szytz. “This type of award is not only an honor to receive personally, but it is also meaningful to earn it as a representative of the Huntley Park District. An award such as this shows the rest of the state that Huntley is steadily becoming an influential community.”

While Szytz, a Huntley native, is excited about the growth he has seen, he values the history of the village.

“In order for the community to continue thriving, we must maintain that balance between welcoming progressive change and celebrating Huntley’s past. It’s important that we continue to embrace Huntley’s traditions. Huntley is an incredible place to be, and I honestly believe the best is yet to come,” stated Szytz.