Robert K. “Bert” Gray is the Executive Director of the Decatur Area Arts Council in Decatur, Illinois. Prior to that, he was Executive Director of the Champaign County Forest Preserve District, and before that, Executive Director of the Oswegoland Park District in one of the fastest growing communities in Illinois. Under his leadership the district added parks, facilities, natural areas, and trails. In addition to larger projects, Gray was instrumental in updating the Land Cash Donation Ordinances for the Village of Oswego and surrounding Kendall County to make sure that adequate and appropriate open space was provided in every neighborhood. His philosophy of shared facilities and cooperative ventures ensured that the citizens of his district got the very most for their tax dollars. 

Gray started his career at Oswego after receiving a Bachelors degree in Recreation and Park Administration from the University of Illinois. He also received a Masters in Business Management from Aurora University in 1984, and in addition to his certification as a Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Gray is also a certified Pool Operator (CPO), and an emeritus diving instructor with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).

Throughout his career, Bert has actively participated in local, state, and regional activities to enhance the field. He served on many committees and in leadership positions for the Suburban Parks and Recreation Association and the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association, and the Professional Development School Board of Regents. He has also served on the IAPD-IPRA Joint Legislative Committee for 18 years, chairing the committee from 2000 to 2002. He represented park districts as a delegate to the Illinois Conservation Congress in 2000 and 2003. During his tenure, he has spoken at state conferences and legislative seminars, taught legislative advocacy techniques, and authored many magazine pieces and articles.

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