Sandy Vangundy Retires After Three Decades of Service
Published 11/1/2024
After over three decades of dedicated service, Sandy Vangundy retired on October 16, 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of community impact. Sandy’s career at the BPD began as a Recreation Supervisor, and her dedication soon saw her promoted to Director of Recreation, where for 30 years she has been instrumental in creating programs and partnerships that enriched the lives of residents of
all ages and backgrounds.
“We will miss Sandy at the Park District,” said Executive Director Joe Potts. “Sandy’s legacy of leadership spans across many years of creating lasting memories for so many. It is hard to believe we will come into work without seeing her enthusiasm and professionalism at work We all wish her the best in her retirement years ahead.”
In honor of Sandy, the Park District will place a Buddy Bench at Circle Park, Erickson Elementary School and DuJardin Elementary School. The Buddy Bench concept is when a student feels lonely, they know to go over and sit on the Buddy Bench. Other students in the play area are then instructed to mingle with that student.
One of Sandy's most celebrated achievements is co-founding the beloved Festival of Lights, a holiday tradition that now attracts over 3,000 participants each year to Old Town Park. She also was instrumental in developing the Super Pass partnership with the Roselle Park District to extend swimming opportunities in the summer.
Sandy’s dedication extended beyond the Park District, as seen in her long-term involvement with the Character Counts! board, mentoring of future leaders, and her role in securing grants for innovative projects like the Story Walk at Circle Park. Her leadership was particularly inspiring during the pandemic, when she guided her team in adapting programs to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
Additionally, Sandy’s career highlights include:
• Opening the Oasis Water Park in 2005 and seeing a record number 42,874 visitors, during that inaugural season.
• The Park District joins forces with the Library, Police Department, Fire Department, and VOB Public Works to provide a true community-wide celebration by collaborating on the BOO!mingdale Halloween event.
• Working on the Paint the Parks project with the Bloomingdale Artist Association to display original artwork of our parks in the Johnston Recreation Center.
• Being part of the creation and growth of significant special events throughout the years, including these favorites, both past and present; Holiday Magic, Halloween Happening Haunted House, Daddy Daughter Dance, Mom & Son Night, Heroes vs. Half-Pints, Winter Carnival, Wizard Fest, Career Day, Dinner with Drac, and Fall Fest.
• The renovation and opening of the Johnston Recreation enter in 2019.
Sandy’s collaborative spirit, passion, and integrity have not only shaped the recreation department but have left an indelible mark on Bloomingdale. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will continue to influence the community she helped to thrive.
Picture: Sandy stands with her husband, Carl, at her retirement open house on her last day at the Bloomingdale Park District October 16. An open house reception to honor Sandy was attended by many colleagues, friends and family at the Bloomingdale Park District Museum.