The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. TERESA `TERRY' RYNARD ON HER RETIREMENT AS
KANSAS CITY'S PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT DIRECTOR
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HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER
of missouri
in the house of representatives
Friday, July 30, 2021
Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the achievements of Teresa `Terry' Rynard, the Director of Kansas City's Parks and Recreation Department, a woman who has dedicated her life to decades of service to the parks and people in Kansas City. Mrs. Rynard is retiring after accomplishing a milestone achievement in becoming the first woman to serve as Kansas City's Parks and Recreation Director in the department's 129- year history. Her legacy of determination and selfless leadership will continue to inspire the lives of many beyond her term.
Since the start of her career at the Parks and Recreation Department, Mrs. Rynard began paving the way for women to work in the field when at the young age of 16, she trimmed weeds and mowed fields of Kansas City's parks despite protests from her male coworkers. With perseverance, she climbed the ranks of the Department while she furthered her educational journey, earning a Bachelor of Arts and Education in 1986. In her 33 years with the Kansas City's Parks and Recreation Department, Mrs. Rynard has served as equipment operator, area superintendent, assistant park superintendent, deputy director, and finally Director of Parks and Recreation. Mrs. Rynard's career stands as a shining example of grit and being an outstanding community leader.
Her contributions to the city can be seen everyday as one walks through its streets and parks. Not only did she succeed in efforts to make Kansas City safer, cleaner, and beautiful, but she helped cultivate an equitable environment for all to enjoy. Mrs. Rynard focused on areas that had been neglected for years and created the Quality of Life Investment District, overseeing numerous park projects across the underserved parts of the city. She also oversaw the installation of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard signs after years of debate, and the transition of Kansas City Museum management to the Kansas City Museum Foundation. In addition, Mrs. Rynard was elected to the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, an immensely prestigious honor earned through her selflessness and leadership. These and countless other successes testify of what an invaluable member of our community she has been.
Mrs. Rynard's work for our city extends beyond the workplace and into her family. Her children have recounted times where, as a family, they would help their mother by picking up trash to clean shelters at parks when the Department was shorthanded. This proves her devotion to better the community and serve those around her, promising continued contributions for our city even after her retirement.
Terry will leave a legacy of kindness and diligence that will continue to live on in Kansas City and its Parks and Recreation Department forever. Her service has touched the lives of all who live in Kansas City and benefit from her works daily. The leadership she's provided the Department has created a foundation to which to build upon as we continue our efforts in promoting equity, inclusion while developing our community. Terry's deep care and love for our City will continue to be felt in every park, avenue, and public space in Kansas City.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 134
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