Contact Us

Meet Our Staff

Brenda Pearson

Brenda Pearson

Facilities, Fitness, & Adult Programs Coordinator

(417) 742-5380
frontdesk@cityofwillard.org

Brenda Pearson

Brenda is bringing her passion and knowledge of working with community based programs to the Willard Park's team. Her years of experience as a program director and athletic organization coordinator will benefit the growth and expansion of Willard Park's Facilities and Adult Programs! Brenda has a drive and passion for creating and implementing new experiences within programs at Willard Parks, as well as flourishing our already existing programs to their full potential!

Danny Weathermon

Danny Weathermon

Sports & Concessions Coordinator

(417) 742-5382
recprograms@cityofwillard.org

Danny Weathermon

Hello everyone! My name is Danny, the new Recreation and Sports Coordinator for the City of Willard. I have 23 years of experience working with members of all ages. I've also volunteered as an umpire for baseball and softball and coached youth basketball for over 20 years. I'm a sports nut and like many different teams in every sport. Not only am I excited to come to a new city, I have a drive and desire to bring new aspects to each of my sports programs and any programs that come my way. Feel free to come say "hi" and introduce yourself. You will see me at all my sports programs, and my door will always be open to any suggestions you want for our community. 

Emily Mills

Emily Mills

Youth Programs & Camp Coordinator

(417) 742-5385
operations@cityofwillard.org

Emily Mills

We couldn't be more excited to introduce Emily Mills as the new Summer Camp Coordinator for Willard Parks! Emily joined Willard Parks full time in October, and has been shining in her new role as youth programs and events coordinator. Emily’s passion for working with children, her deep roots in our community, and her wealth of experience make her the perfect leader for our 2025 Summer Camp Program. Get ready for a summer full of fun, adventure, and unforgettable memories! Emily is a proud graduate of Willard Schools and a long-time community member who has dedicated her career to enriching the lives of children and families. Emily and her husband, Matthew, have been married for 14 years and are raising four Willard Tigers, ranging from pre-k to sixth grade. She is thrilled to step into this role and bring fresh energy to our Summer Camp Program. She is especially excited to focus on staff training, setting new standards for safety, and ensuring every child has a summer filled with adventure and engagement.

Samantha Guinn

Samantha Guinn

Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation

(417) 742-5384
assistdirector@cityofwillard.org

Samantha Guinn

​Hey guys, I’m Sam! If you’re browsing our website or social media, you’re in my realm! When I’m not creating things that catch your eye, I’m planning the next big thing at Willard Parks! How fun is that? In my spare time, I love wrestling with my dogs and hanging out with my kiddo. They’re a crazy bunch that always makes me giggle. You’ll see me around town, partnering with local businesses to create the next fun thing for our little community, Willard football games, Willard Chamber Choir concerts, and walking my little dachshund Beans. If you spot me, please say hello and we can talk about what you’d like to see us offer next. I love crazy ideas and making fun happen!

Jason Knight

Jason Knight

Director of Parks & Recreation

(417) 742-5381
parkdir@cityofwillard.org

Jason Knight

I am a total nerd for fun. My whole life revolves around focusing on what makes happiness happen, and I am happy when I am a part of something bigger than myself. I love Parks and Recreation, not just as a career, but as a philosophy. There is something special about providing opportunities for the community, for seeing the light bulb come on in a young person as they finally grasp a new skill, and about providing a safe place for kids to push their limits and learn something about themselves.  I am happy to be a part of this community, to be involved in the good causes that this community champions, and to make new relationships with new people. I am happiest, though, when I am with my wonderful wife, Rachel, and our classy and dignified dog Gotham, cruising back roads in the country with the top down and the radio playing an eclectic mix of Appalachia Bluegrass and 90’s hits. Stop in to the Rec and say hi and bring an idea for a program you would like to see Willard Parks and Recreation offer. Until then, get outside, and PLAY! And always: GO CHIEFS!

Joseph Stone

Maintenance Supervisor

Brett Opfer

Landscaping & Grounds Lead

Kady Addison

Landscaping & Mowing Specialist