Somerville Welcomes New Director Of Parks And Recreation

SOMERVILLE, MA — The city has appointed a new leader for the Parks and Recreation Department.

Ohemeng Kyeremateng is Somerville’s newest Parks and Recreation Director, the office of Mayor Jake Wilson announced Monday. The Director of Parks and Recreation is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and oversight of the city's recreational programs, public spaces, departmental operations, and budget management for its portion of funds.

Kyeremateng earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sports and Leisure Management from Eastern Connecticut State University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Fitchburg State University. His first professional role came when he worked for the city of Hartford, Connecticut as its Deputy Director of Recreation. According to Wilson, his duties in that role included management of parks, facilities, aquatics, community programs, and operating and capital budgets.

Most recently, Kyeremateng worked as the Director of Recreation for the town of Palmer.

“It’s youth sports, afterschool and summer programs, and the daily opportunities that help kids thrive and neighbors connect,” Wilson said in a statement. “Ohemeng (Kyeremateng) brings the experience and drive to grow participation and strengthen the programs Somerville families and all our residents rely on.”

Kyeremateng is a scholarship award recipient of the American Parks and Recreation Foundation and a graduate of the National Recreation and Park Association’s Revenue Management School, with expertise in financial sustainability and revenue strategy.

“I’m honored to lead Somerville’s Parks and Recreation Department,” Kyeremateng said. “Recreation programming can help community members of all ages discover new talents, meet new friends, and just have fun. I’m looking forward to working with our team to deliver great programs for everyone in Somerville.”

Sue Yerkes was the city’s last Director of Parks and Recreation, which she served in for three years until last July.

See Also:

The 'Urban Mechanic' Is Inaugurated In Somerville

Arlington Has A New Animal Control Leader