COLUMBUS, OH -- Jerry Van Zile, manager of Harrison Lake, Independence Dam, Mary Jane Thurston and Van Buren state parks in northwest Ohio, has received the first-ever Ohio State Parks Leadership Award, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
The award recognizes Van Zile's outstanding customer service, community relations, employee development and overall attitude. Park managers throughout the state nominated him for the award.
"Jerry Van Zile stands out as a leader among his peers," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. "He has the respect and admiration of his employees, as well as his counterparts around the state."
Parks managed by Van Zile consistently rank near the top in customer satisfaction ratings. Park customers frequently use words such as "cordial," "dedicated" and "professional" to describe Van Zile's management style.
He's worked to build good community partnerships for his parks that have resulted in the establishment of a friends' group and the construction of a new shelter house and kitchen at Harrison Lake State Park.
"Jerry is a strong leader who always maintains a positive attitude and good humor that influence everyone around him," West said.
Ohio's 74 state parks encompass eight resort lodges, six golf courses, more than 500 cottages and 57 campgrounds with more than 9,000 campsites. For additional information, visit the ohiodnr.com web site.