Murfreesboro
Parks and Recreation Department (MPRD) announced today that Gernell
Jenkins has been promoted to Superintendent at Patterson Park Community Center
following the retirement of Russell Smith.
“Gernell’s community connections, organizational acumen and
leadership qualities fit perfectly with our mission to provide quality programs
at a first-class venue. She is another dedicated addition to the Murfreesboro
Parks and Recreation Department’s Leadership Team, and we’re excited to see
what the future holds for Patterson Park Community Center under her guidance,”
said Nate Williams, MPRD Director.
Jenkins has over 15
years of leadership experience in parks and recreation and facility management.
Her
proven ability as operations coordinator, then facility supervisor for 10 years
at Patterson Park will be key in continuing the excellent programming and
community partnerships that have developed at the facility. During her
leadership, the Tennessee Parks and Recreation Association recognized her as
the 2013 Distinguished Young Professional and she was also awarded the 2010 and
2017 Robert Horsley Award which is an honor that recognizes community center
personnel who have planned conducted or was responsible for the most
outstanding community center program during the year.
“My
service at Patterson Park Community Center is my way of giving back to the
community which was so influential in my development and helped mold me to
become the woman I am today,” said Jenkins.
Prior
to her work with the City of Murfreesboro, Gernell
began her career as a public servant with the City of Indianapolis and Metro
Nashville where she served in various leadership capacities in Parks and
Recreation.
Jenkins
has volunteered with numerous community organizations including Big Brothers
and Big Sisters and the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon County where she
was recognized as a member of the 2017 Catalyst Leadership Academy. She
currently serves as President and a chartering member for the Tennessee State
University National Alumni Association Murfreesboro Rutherford County Chapter.
Jenkins
is a product of Murfreesboro City Schools and is a 1997 graduate of Riverdale
High School. She is also a graduate of Tennessee State University with a
Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Physical Education and has earned her
Master of Science Degree with a concentration in Sport Management from Middle
Tennessee State University. Gernell is the
youngest daughter of Harry and Diane Floyd. She and her husband, Json
Jenkins, have the privilege of being parents to their “Little Princess” Gianna Tiane Jenkins.
Patterson
Park Community Center, located at 521 Mercury Boulevard, was renovated in 2003
to include The Washington Theatre, meeting rooms, a gymnasium, racquetball
court, dance/aerobic studios, a fitness room, walking track, large cafeteria
with kitchen, outdoor picnic pavilion, pickle ball courts, and an indoor pool
with small waterpark features. Daily, monthly and yearly passes are available;
city residents, youth, seniors and military personnel may receive discounts.
Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to
providing vibrant public spaces and inclusive programs delivered with visionary
leadership and caring staff that engage the individual and strengthen the
quality of life of our community.