R.J. Cardin is the recently retired director of Maricopa County’s Parks and Recreation Department, one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. Maricopa County’s regional park system is made up of over 120,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert landscape.
The award-winning system is home to hundreds of miles of trails, including the Maricopa Trail, golf courses, recreation facilities, campgrounds, a marina, nature centers, nature and outdoor recreation programs, and an environmental learning center. The system garnered more than a 95% visitor experience satisfaction rating among guests and generated more than 93% of its operating income through earned revenue streams.
Cardin has more than 35 years of diverse parks and recreation experience, including local, county, and state government, commercial recreation, and the non-profit sector. Cardin holds a Master’s degree from Arizona State University, focusing on outdoor recreation and tourism. In addition, he holds Bachelor’s degrees in both Business Administration and Recreation Management from Morningside University.
Over the past several years, Cardin has been named Outstanding Park and Recreation Professional for Arizona; inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administrators and is a current Board member; served as the President of the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials; and, served as the Chair of the Arizona State Parks Board.
R.J. also served 8 years in the United States Army Reserves and was an Honorary Commander at Luke Air Force Base.
