The City of Valparaiso announced today that Kevin Nuppnau will be leaving his role as Director of Valpo Parks to accept a leadership position with the Porter County Community Foundation, effective at the end of January, according to Mayor Jon Costas.
“We are incredibly grateful for Kevin’s extraordinary service to Valpo Parks and to our community,” said Mayor Costas. “His vision, leadership, and commitment have elevated our parks system in lasting ways. While he will be deeply missed, this new role allows Kevin to continue making a meaningful impact in Porter County, and we wish him every success.”
Nuppnau joined Valpo Parks in 2018 as Business Operations Director and was appointed Director in 2023. During his tenure, he helped lead transformative projects that will benefit Valparaiso for generations, including Creekside Trails, Flounder & Friends Skatepark, the $10 million RePlay initiative and the Valpo REC. The Valpo REC is currently converting the 16-acre former McGill factory site into a dynamic recreation and enrichment center just steps from downtown Valparaiso.
Valpo Parks will remain in capable hands as Assistant Director Tristan Leonhard has been named Acting Director. Leonhard joined Valpo Parks in 2023 after previously serving as Director of Campus Recreation & Well-Being at Valparaiso University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in sports administration, both from Valparaiso University.
Valpo Parks includes 23 parks facilities and 31 miles of trails and pathways, offering extensive programming throughout the city. In 2024, Valpo Parks assumed management of the Memorial Opera House in downtown Valparaiso and launched RePLAY, a community-driven initiative that delivered $10 million in improvements to 10 beloved city parks. The Valpo Parks system is nationally respected and has earned numerous awards for community improvement, innovation, and industry achievement.
To learn more about Valpo Parks, its properties, programs, and projects, visit valpoparks.org.