Bill McAdam, Executive Director of the Downers Grove Park District, and President of the Lemont Park District Board of Commissioners, was honored with the Robert Artz Lifetime Achievement Award by the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) during the IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference on Friday, January 30, 2026.
The Robert Artz Lifetime Achievement Award is one of IPRA’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose careers reflect outstanding leadership, dedication, and lasting impact on the park and recreation profession. The award commemorates the legacy of Robert Artz, a visionary leader whose service strengthened Illinois’ park district system and advanced the national leisure movement.
With a distinguished career spanning more than 35 years, McAdam has left an enduring mark on communities across Illinois through his visionary leadership, commitment to land conservation, and mentorship of future professionals. Throughout his career, he has been directly responsible for securing more than 500 acres of public land, creating accessible spaces that promote recreation, environmental stewardship, and community connection.
For the past 11 years McAdam has served on the Lemont Park District Board, the same Park District that provided his first job as a pool desk attendant. McAdam credits his passion for Parks started in his own hometown.
We are grateful the major part McAdam has played in the development of our buildings, parks, referendum efforts and establishing the future of how we serve the Lemont Community!
Congrats Bill!
