Meet Our Staff

Executive Director

Michael O’Shea, CPRP

Meet our Executive Director – Michael O’Shea, CPRP

Michael O’Shea is a veteran professional in the parks and recreation field, bringing over 17 years of experience to his role as the BTPD Executive Director. With a commitment to community enrichment and outdoor recreation, O’Shea has built a career marked by innovative program development, strategic-planning and effective leadership.

O’Shea graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation Administration from the University of St. Francis at Joliet in 2006, where he also played baseball for the Saints. He furthered his education with a Master of Science in Recreation, Sports and Tourism from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2015. His certifications include Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and FEMA training in emergency management.

As Superintendent of Parks and Recreation, O’Shea supervised a diverse team and managed the development of numerous recreation programs and events, including large-scale community events like Freedom Fest and Christmas in the Park for the town of St. John, Indiana. He restructured the department to improve efficiency and led the development of new park facilities, such as a 9-hole disc golf course and updated playgrounds.

During his tenure for the Town of Dyer, Indiana O’Shea served as Director of Parks and Recreation, overseeing 21 parks and various development projects, including a splash pad and a four-ball field complex.

As Downers Grove Park District Athletics and Outdoor Facilities Manager, O’Shea supervised numerous youth and adult sports programs, managed athletic field rentals and facilitated major events. His tenure saw substantial participation in sports leagues and the development of athletic facilities.

O’Shea and his wife Kerri have five children. As the eldest of nine siblings, he values the importance of teamwork and community, principles that have guided his professional journey and personal life.