Deerfield Park District Executive Director Steps Down

DEERFIELD, IL — Annemarie Flaherty, executive director of the Deerfield Park District, stepped down from the position last week. She had served in the role since the summer of 2024.

Following Flaherty's departure on Feb. 6, the Deerfield Park District Board of Park Commissioners appointed Laura McCarty to serve as interim executive director. With McCarty serving as deputy director, the board said the appointment will ensure a continuity of leadership and operations within the District.

According to the park district, Flaherty had focused on the organization's mission during her tenure by helping provide the Deerfield community with parks, services, facilities, and recreation programs "aimed to enrich lives, promote healthy living, and inspire memorable experiences."

"On behalf of the Board of Park Commissioners, I want to express our appreciation for Annemarie’s commitment and service to the Park District," said Debbie Serota, board president. "We wish her the very best in her future endeavors."

The Board of Park Commissioners will begin the search for a permanent executive director in the coming weeks utilizing a process it says will help identify a long-term leader for the District's operations.