Atuya Cornwell Named Chapel Hill’s Parks and Recreation Director

Atuya Cornwell, who has been serving as the interim director of parks and recreation for the Town of Chapel Hill since November, was named to the permanent position by interim town manager Chris Blue on Thursday.

“I am thrilled that Atuya has accepted the offer to serve as our next Director of Parks and Recreation,” Blue said. “In his time with the town, he has proven to be a collaborative and enthusiastic colleague and I cannot wait to see what he and the Parks and Recreation team will accomplish together under his leadership.”

Cornwell has worked for the town since last April, when he began as an assistant director within the parks and recreation department. Cornwell oversaw day-to-day operations and management of special projects before becoming interim director at the end of November.

“Over the last year, it has been a pleasure to grow with and learn from our outstanding Parks and Recreation team here in Chapel Hill,” Cornwell said. “I am excited about our commitment to provide rewarding and impactful experiences that help inspire and empower this community.”

Cornwell has worked for nearly two decades in public sector recreation, including positions in Mecklenburg County and the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. He earned his undergraduate degree at UNC-Greensboro and a master’s degree from Pfeiffer University.

Featured image via Town of Chapel Hill

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