CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST) has earned national reaccreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), administered by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). This recognition places CPRST among the top 2.5% of agencies nationwide and one of only two in Alabama to meet these rigorous standards.
Cullman first made history in 2019 as the state’s first CAPRA-accredited agency and now joins the ranks again following a comprehensive six-year review.
“This isn’t just another accomplishment to hang on the wall; it represents so much more than that. It’s the result of years of hard work from an exceptional team,” said CPRST Executive Director Nathan Anderson. “Our CAPRA Team Leaders, Christy Turner and Kimberly Speegle, led the effort with remarkable organization and attention to detail, and Board Member Dr. Beth Bownes Johnson provided invaluable guidance throughout the process. Reaccreditation requires commitment at every level, and I’m proud of how our leadership team and staff continue to uphold national standards that make Cullman a model for others.”
The reaccreditation process evaluates compliance with 154 national standards — from fiscal management and planning to public engagement and risk management. Each standard must be supported by extensive documentation and verified through a national review team, making CAPRA one of the most challenging and respected benchmarks in the profession.
“CAPRA is about operational excellence, not just meeting standards but living them,” said Kyle Clark, director of operations for CPRST. “Every policy, every process, every safety measure is part of that larger picture. I’m proud of our team for the consistency and professionalism that made reaccreditation possible.”
“CAPRA is intentionally tough by design,” said Rusty Turner, CPRST board chairman. “It’s been the national benchmark for excellence since 1994, and reaccreditation reminds us that excellence isn’t a destination — it’s a responsibility we must continually foster. I’m deeply grateful for our team and for those who laid the groundwork that allows us to serve our community at this level.”
In addition to this reaccreditation, CPRST made history in 2023 as the first agency in Alabama and one of very small number in the South to ever receive the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence, which honors the nation’s top-performing parks and recreation agency in its population category.
“It’s great to see our parks and recreation department continue to operate with excellence at a nationally recognized level,” said Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs. “Earning reaccreditation through CAPRA, on top of the National Gold Medal, shows that Cullman is leading the way in responsible management, innovation and quality of life for our citizens.”
This reaccreditation affirms CPRST’s continued commitment to community, professional excellence and long-term sustainability, values that have positioned Cullman as one of the most progressive and award-winning park systems in the nation.
