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The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has selected Kristy Duarte, special projects coordinator for City of Miami Parks, as one of its 2025 30 Under 30 honorees. This prestigious recognition celebrates Kristy’s dedication and outstanding contributions to enhancing Miami’s parks and recreation system.
Since joining Miami Parks in 2011 as a lifeguard, Duarte has worked across several divisions, consistently exceeding expectations. As park manager, she transformed Antonio Maceo Park into a vibrant and welcoming space for older adults, launching a popular and impactful active adults program.
Currently, as special projects coordinator, Duarte has played a pivotal role in the development of new parks, working seamlessly with the Capital Division to organize groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Her expert collaboration with Miami’s grants, planning, budget, and procurement departments has ensured that crucial projects are both funded and successfully executed.
During the City Commission meeting on Thursday, Feb. 13, Mayor Francis X. Suarez presented Duarte with a proclamation to honor her achievements. This national recognition reflects the exceptional impact she has made.
“It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Kristy as she was selected as one of NRPA’s 30 Under 30 recipients. I want to thank her for her great work. We have a phenomenal Parks Department that every day provides services and infinite value to our community — one that we all cherish. Thank you, Kristy, for all the work that you do,” Mayor Suarez said.
The NRPA’s 30 Under 30 list honors young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and creativity in the field of parks and recreation. Duarte’s selection emphasizes her integral role in Miami Parks’ continued growth and success.
“Kristy’s selection to NRPA’s 2025 30 Under 30 is a well-deserved recognition of her passion, dedication, and transformative leadership in our community,” said Chris Evans, director of Miami Parks. “We are incredibly proud of her recognition by NRPA, which reflects the outstanding work she does every day.”
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