Early in Sheavoun Lambillotte’s career, she knew exactly what she wanted to do.

“It was always my career goal to become a director at some point,” Lambillotte said. “It was icing on the cake to do it in my own community.”

Lambillotte was named Geneva Park District’s executive director on Wednesday, July 1. Stephen Persinger, the park district’s current director, retired Tuesday, June 30, after 30 years at the wheel of the Park District.

“They’re big shoes to fill,” Lambillotte said. “He has 30 years of experience but also 30 years of history. Although I’ve been here for 10 years, there will still be a learning curve when I go through his files and all of the past, present and future files.

“When he started, we had about seven parks,” Lambillotte said. “Now we have over 50. It’ll be a challenge to catch up on the history (of the parks).”

Lambillotte said the first thing she plans to do is get the Park Board back together and formalize a plan on where they want to take the Park District. She said they will be looking at a community survey, and info from current staff to look for a clear direction.

Even with Lambillotte trying to find her way, she knows there’s already a set mold for her to follow.

“From the information that we have from past community surveys and input from our board,” Lambillotte said, “the community and park board are extremely happy with the successes that the park district has had and the service we have been providing.”

Notable
Before starting with the Geneva Park District 10 years ago, Lambillotte worked with the Schaumburg Park District for 10 years and the Oak Park Park District for three years before that.

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“I am super excited to get started,” Lambillotte said of starting her new position. “I’m very, very enthusiastic as I was when I got hired for the job.”

Philosophy
“My philosophy toward the job is to maintain the level of external service that we always have,” Lambillotte said. “And strengthen internal customer service and internal work of all departments in the district.”

Favorites
Music All kinds except for punk rock and classical
outdoor activities Backpacking and volleyball
food Mexican
Other interests “My girls which take up a large portion of my time and backpacking at national parks.”