Deerfield Park District Appoints Laura McCarty As Executive Director

DEERFIELD, IL — The Deerfield Park District board has appointed Laura McCarty as the district’s new executive director, effective April 1, 2026. McCarty has been serving as interim executive director and has worked for the district since 2019, most recently as director of recreation.

According to the park district, McCarty brings nearly seven years of experience with the Deerfield agency and 28 years in the parks and recreation profession. Before joining Deerfield, she held recreation leadership roles with the Village of Lincolnwood Parks and Recreation Department, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, Fairfax County Park Authority in Fairfax, Virginia, and the Wheaton Park District.

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The district said McCarty played a key role in recreational programming, facilities, community engagement and operations during her time in Deerfield. As director of recreation, she oversaw programs, events, activities and facility operations serving residents of all ages.

“McCarty has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to our community,” Board President Debbie Serota said. “During her time as Interim Executive Director, McCarty provided steady guidance and support for the incredible work happening across the District. The Board is confident that under her leadership, the Deerfield Park District will continue to thrive.”

In her new role, McCarty will oversee district operations, strategic planning, financial management and staff leadership, according to the announcement. The district said those duties support its mission of providing parks, services, facilities and recreation programs for Deerfield residents.

“I am honored to be selected as the next Executive Director of the Deerfield Park District,” McCarty said. “Having worked alongside such a dedicated team for nearly seven years, I look forward to continuing to serve our community and building on the District’s strong foundation of parks, programs, facilities, operations and partnerships to support future growth and innovation.”