Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation now a standalone department, new leadership announced

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA–County leadership has elevated Gwinnett Parks and Recreation to a standalone department in a move to better serve the community and meet the growing needs of Gwinnett’s award-winning parks system. As part of the transition, County Administrator Glenn Stephens appointed Chris Minor as Director of the new Parks and Recreation Department and Lindsey Jorstad as Director of the Community Services Department.

“Gwinnett’s stability can be attributed much to our longstanding practice of developing exceptional leaders within our organization, and with these two appointments, we reaffirm that practice,” said Stephens. “I am confident that Chris and Lindsey possess the values and capacity to significantly enhance the remarkable work already underway across our community-focused services and programs.”

Minor, who joined the County in 2013, became the first Black leader of Parks and Recreation in 2021. Under his guidance, Gwinnett’s recreational programming and facilities have gained national recognition, including consecutive nominations for the prestigious National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in park and recreation management. Minor holds a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management from Clemson University and is a certified parks and recreation professional.

“Our parks and recreation programs set the standard nationwide,” Minor said. “Being named a finalist for the Gold Medal Award two years in a row reflects the dedication of our team. I look forward to building on this success and elevating our offerings even further.”

Jorstad will assume the role of Community Services Director beginning Jan. 18, following the retirement of Tina Fleming, whose last day is Jan. 17.

Fleming concludes more than 27 years of public service, 24 of those spent with Gwinnett County, where she expanded the Health and Human Services and Parks and Recreation Divisions and launched impactful initiatives such as Live Healthy Gwinnett, Building Brains Anywhere and OneStop 4 Help to enhance residents’ quality of life.

Jorstad has been with the County since 2007 and began her career in aquatic center operations and as a lifeguard. Her approach to leadership has centered around the proactive well-being of Gwinnett’s residents. While serving as the department’s deputy, Jorstad strengthened the department’s collaboration and engagement efforts with community partners, stakeholders and residents.

“Community Services plays a vital role in creating opportunities for connection and growth,” Jorstad said. “I’m humbled to lead this exceptional team and excited to build on the strong foundation established by past leadership. Together, we will continue delivering programs that inspire, empower, and make a meaningful impact in Gwinnett.”

For more information about Parks and Recreation and Community Services programs and services, visit GwinnettCounty.com.