NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release: June 19, 2026

Contact: David Fath, Communications Director

(704) 985-4935 dfath@albemarlenc.gov

Rob Hanlen Selected as City of Albemarle’s Parks & Recreation Director

ALBEMARLE, NC – City Manager Darren Rhodes has selected Rob Hanlen as the new Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Albemarle. Hanlen brings more than two decades of experience in leading athletics, recreation, and facilities operations.

“Rob Hanlen brings hands-on expertise in community recreation, spanning everything from capital projects and infrastructure planning to programming, scheduling, and daily operations. This well-rounded background makes Rob an exceptional fit for Albemarle,” said Darren Rhodes, Albemarle City Manager. “His leadership will be critical as we implement the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan.”

Hanlen previously served as Director of Operations for The Trinity Athletic Center at Trinity Washington University in Washington, DC. Hanlen has been instrumental in transforming the University’s Trinity Center into a cornerstone of health, wellness, and community engagement. Hanlen helped develop a comprehensive risk management plan that ensures the safety and well-being of all members and staff. Hanlen also led strategic initiatives supported by marketing, operational planning, and grant funding to keep the facility operating in alignment with the university's broader strategic goals.

Hanlen’s Parks and Recreation experience includes multiple roles with the Montgomery County Department of Recreation in Silver Spring, Maryland. Hanlen was instrumental in the opening and expansion of multiple community centers. Most notably, Hanlen worked on a new a cutting-edge, eco-friendly LEED-certified multi-purpose facility, drawing more than 600 visitors daily. Hanlen also directed the daily operations and promotions of a wide-ranging portfolio of recreational programs serving community members of all ages and backgrounds.

Through a collaborative approach, Hanlen also helped establish and refine departmental policies and procedures to better meet the evolving needs of the community. He successfully developed partnerships with local businesses and diverse community groups.

"I am honored to join the City of Albemarle’s team. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department has a rich tradition of serving the community,” said Hanlen. “I look forward to building on that foundation by creating innovative programming, fostering meaningful partnerships, and developing spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, grow, and thrive. I am eager to bring my passion for community engagement and operational excellence to this role, and I cannot wait to get to work alongside such a dedicated team."

Hanlen obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management from Pennsylvania State University and a Masters’ degree in Sports Management from Old Dominion University.

Hanlen will begin his role with the City of Albemarle on July 13, 2026.