The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission selected as a finalist for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award in Parks and Recreation Management
RIVERDALE, Md. – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is selected as a finalist in the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association.
The Gold Medal is among the highest honors in the park and recreation industry, recognizing outstanding management and service. M-NCPPC, which includes the Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County and Montgomery Parks, is a six-time gold medal recipient. The agency earned this prestigious award in 1973, 1977, 1983, 1984, 2003, and 2015, and was also named a finalist in 2023 and 2025.
“We’re the destination for the nation, and being named a finalist is a testament of our world-class parks and recreation,” said Darryl Barnes, chairman of M-NCPPC, Prince George’s County Planning Board. “We take pride in delivering exceptional experiences for our residents and visitors and set the standard for parks and recreation nationwide.”
“This recognition highlights the dedication and commitment of the staff who serve our communities,” said Artie Harris, vice chair of the M-NCPPC and chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board. “I’m continually inspired by their work and the unique talents and passion they bring to our organization. This honor is truly well deserved.”
“Being named a finalist for the National Gold Medal Award reflects the dedication and passion of our staff, volunteers, and community partners. Together, they work to deliver exceptional parks and programs,” said Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks. “This recognition underscores our commitment to bringing people together, fostering inclusive park experiences, promoting healthy and active lifestyles, and responsibly caring for our natural resources.”
“This recognition reflects the essential programs and services provided by our staff, who work every day to deliver exceptional parks and recreation experiences to residents across Prince George’s County,” said Darius A. Stanton, director of the Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County. “As a six-time gold medal recipient, we are number one in the nation, and it’s an honor to be a finalist and elevate our community on the national stage.”
M-NCPPC is competing for the Gold Medal in the Class I category of parks systems with a population of more than 400,001. Other park and recreation agencies competing for the Class I Gold Medal include Baltimore City Recreation and Parks, Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, and Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation.
Founded in 1965, the Gold Medal Awards program honors communities in the United States that demonstrate excellence in parks and recreation through long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program development, professional development and agency recognition.
The Gold Medal recipient will be announced in September at the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
