The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) recently announced the new Chief Research and Impact Officer, Dr. Garrett Warfield.

 

Dr. Warfield joined the association in fall 2024 after 20 years working with research, evaluation, and data science for nonprofit organizations.

"The diverse experience Garrett brings to NRPA will be an incredible asset to the organization and to the field of parks and recreation," said Kristine Stratton, NRPA president and CEO. "Garrett's leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the powerful impact parks and recreation has on community health and well-being, building our advocacy case for durable investment. We are confident that his vision and commitment to collaboration will position us for strong partnerships and sustained success. We are thrilled to have Garrett on the team."

This role will oversee NRPA's Research and Evaluation team, design strategic efforts for research. Dr. Warfield will bring his experience from his tenure with Year Upp United where he built a research and evaluation department. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology and statistical methods from Boston University M.Sc. in criminology with forensic psychology from Middlesex University in England and a Ph.D. in criminology and justice in policy from Northeastern University.