Rockville’s Department of Recreation and Parks has been named a finalist for the 2026 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, placing Rockville among the nation’s leading park and recreation agencies.

The National Gold Medal Award is administered by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association. Established in 1965, the award recognizes excellence in areas including long-range planning, resource management, volunteerism, environmental stewardship, program innovation, professional development and organizational excellence.

Rockville is one of only four finalists nationwide in Class IV, which includes agencies serving populations between 30,001 and 75,000. The finalists will compete for the Grand Plaque Award, which will be announced at the National Recreation and Park Association’s annual conference in Philadelphia.

“This national recognition reflects the incredible work of our City staff, volunteers, coaches, instructors, and community partners who help make Rockville’s parks, programs, events and facilities such an important part of daily life in our city,” said Councilmember Adam Van Grack. “Rockville’s outstanding parks and recreation programs bring our neighborhoods together, support families, and improve quality of life throughout our City.”

Councilmember Van Grack serves as the Mayor and Council liaison to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, which advises the Mayor and Council on matters involving Rockville’s parks, recreation programs and facilities.

Rockville has a proud history with the National Gold Medal Award program. The city received the Grand Plaque Award in 1994 and was previously named a finalist in 1974, 1975, 1993, 1994 and 2025. This marks Rockville’s second consecutive year as a national finalist.

Congratulations to everyone at Rockville Recreation and Parks whose dedication, creativity and service helped earn this prestigious recognition!