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With a career spanning decades in the parks and recreation industry, Fred Tamagawa emerged as a distinguished leader in our profession, leaving a lasting impact on the Utah Recreation and Parks Association (URPA). Throughout his tenure, he held multiple board positions, serving as URPA Executive Secretary from 1983 to 1991, followed by 12 years as Executive Treasurer from 1991 to 2003, and culminating in his term as URPA President from 2004 to 2005. Fred's vision, leadership, and dedication played a pivotal role in shaping the direction, sustainability, and success of our association.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Fred received the Service to URPA Award in 1994 and was honored with the URPA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. Understanding the value of continuous professional development, he championed access to training and education for parks and recreation professionals. His commitment to this cause led to the establishment of the Fred and Judy Tamagawa Professional Development Scholarship in 2013. Funded through annual scholarship auctions, this scholarship is a testament to Fred and Judy's unwavering dedication to the profession.
Throughout Fred's 25+ years of service on the URPA Board of Directors, his wife, Judy, has been his steadfast supporter and “right-hand person.” Her active involvement in conferences, volunteer efforts at check-ins, contributions to scholarship auctions, and genuine friendships with countless parks and recreation professionals have made her an invaluable member of our community.