Earlier this month, the Urbana Park District Board of Commissioners welcomed new commissioner Roger Digges (pictured left, below). He was appointed to fill out the unexpired term of Bob Stewart.

"I have enjoyed Urbana Park District facilities, parks and programs for many years and I am glad to give back to the community by serving as a commissioner," Digges commented.

Before being appointed, Digges served two years on the Urbana Park District Advisory Committee, the second as its chair. As an avid birder, Roger initially became interested in the District because of its work in developing and maintaining natural areas, but has come to appreciate the way in which it provides recreational and educational programming in an inclusive way which brings the community together.

Roger is an ordained minister who retired in 2014 after 35 years of service. He enjoys his volunteer work as an East Central Illinois Master Naturalist serving the Urbana Park District and the Champaign County Forest Preserve District. He and his spouse Cathy walk at Meadowbrook Park most mornings.

Urbana Park District Board of Commissioners President Michael Walker welcomed Digges to the board saying, "Roger brings a passion and appreciation for the Park District to our board. He has a good skill set and we look forward to his contributions."