Published on January 28, 2025
We’re proud to announce that the City of Merriam received three state awards from the Kansas Recreation and Park Association on Jan 28.
Merriam Parks and Recreation Director Anna Slocum received the 2025 Administration Branch Leadership Award. She has served our community since 2012.
“Our Parks and Recreation Department staff is committed to Merriam residents and Merriam Community Center patrons, and we’re always looking at ways to improve on or add new events and programs to better our city and community,” Slocum said. “This award is a testament to our hard work, and I’m proud to lead such an amazing team.”
Mayor Bob Pape received the 2025 Distinguished Elected Official award for his overall support of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, including volunteering and attending events throughout the year.
“I’m honored to receive this award,” Pape said. “I can’t stress how important it is to recognize the important work our Parks and Recreation staff offers our community, including fun programs and events and safe and sustainable facilities. That, in turn, offers a great quality of life for our residents while building community.”
The Merriam Parks and Recreation Department also received an award for Outstanding Recreation Program for its Taylor Swift Pop-Up Bash. The city hosted this popular event just before the Chiefs went to the Super Bowl last year and when Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour video came out. More than 135 people attended the pop-up with just 10 days to prepare for the event.
Congratulations to our Parks and Recreation Department and city leadership for helping make Merriam Just Right!