Dec. 7, 2020

Parks and Recreation staff appointed to national and state boards

James Ellis, director of Johnson City’s Park and Recreation Department, has been appointed to the USA Softball Board of Directors. His appointment comes as a result of recent regional elections during the USA Softball Annual Council Meeting where he was elected to serve as the Southeast Region Vice President representing Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee.

“It is an honor to serve on the USA Softball Board of Directors and to represent the Southeast Region,” said Ellis. “At this point in my career, I wanted the opportunity to give back to a program that has been a large part of my life. USA Softball has provided me the opportunity to gain a wealth of knowledge for our sport and to develop friendships across the nation that otherwise would not have been possible.”

In addition to serving as the USA Softball of Tennessee Commissioner for 12 years, Ellis’ involvement in the USA Softball Council spans a total of 32 years and includes roles within the Legislative, Commissioner Appointments, Membership, and Ethics Committees. Ellis was elected to the USA Softball of Tennessee Hall of Fame in 2017.

Sam Miller, recreation services manager for the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, has been appointed to the position of 2021 East District Director for the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association. In this role, Miller will be responsible for the following duties:

• Attending the President’s Assembly and presenting a calendar of scheduled activities and a budget for the east district workshop.
• Coordinating the east district workshop in Johnson City (or virtually, as health restrictions allow). This workshop provides members who have professional certifications an opportunity to obtain continuing education units.
• Hosting the east district meeting at the annual conference.
• Hosting a business meeting at the workshop and conference.
• Coordinating the election of the next East District Director Elect at conference.

“It’s awesome to have employees who desire to become more involved with our professional organization,” said Ellis. “This is a great educational experience for Sam and we are proud to have him serve as District Chair and assist the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association during the next year.”  

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