Forsyth County’s parks and recreation director has been recognized by the Georgia Recreation and Park Association with the District 7 Distinguished Professional Administrator of the Year Award.

Jerry Kinsey, who also earned this distinction in 1997, was selected by his peers from throughout the state.

According to a news release from Forsyth County government, the award recognizes those who have made outstanding and lasting contributions to the administration aspect of the recreation profession in Georgia.

Kinsey has worked in the parks and recreation field for more than 36 years.

Since 1985, he has served as director of the Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department, consistently ranked among the best in the state.

Cindy J. Mills, a member of the local parks and recreation board, said in a statement that she has “witnessed the skill, integrity and dedication that Jerry Kinsey demonstrates daily in his role as director.”

“His receipt of this well-deserved accolade is truly indicative of the high esteem in which he is held by his staff, as well as by all facets of the community,” she said.

The award was presented to Kinsey during the recent District 7 banquet in Gainesville.

Kinsey has overseen the substantial growth of the county’s park system, from having just two parks covering about 30 acres in 1985, to today consisting of more than 2,600 acres.

District 7 is made up of more than 30 parks and recreation agencies across north Georgia.