Wilmington Appoints New Leadership To Guide Parks And Rec. Department

Dr. Melody Phillips (left), Director, and Tanya Warner (right), Deputy Director, are newly appointed leadership for Wilmington’s Parks and Rec. Department, a part of the city’s broader effort to reshape community engagement. (Photo courtesy Wilmington.gov)

WILMINGTON— Mayor John Carney has announced new leadership for the City of Wilmington’s Parks and Recreation Department, appointing Dr. Melody Phillips as Director and Tanya Warner as Deputy Director.

The appointments are part of a broader effort by the Carney administration to reshape the city’s approach to public recreation, youth programming, and community engagement.

“Since taking office, one of my top priorities has been to reimagine how our city approaches parks and recreation,” said Mayor Carney. “That means making our parks cleaner and safer, engaging more young people, and building programs that offer not just recreation, but education and opportunity. We want to make sure every resident, especially our youth, has access to enriching activities, safe spaces, and pathways to success. Dr. Phillips and Ms. Warner are the right leaders to take this mission forward and bring that vision to life.”

Dr. Phillips, a Southbridge native, had been serving as Acting Director before her official appointment. She brings over two decades of experience in both government and nonprofit sectors. Under her leadership, the William “Hicks” Anderson Community Center has seen marked growth, with increased emphasis on youth programming, according to city reports.

The department has also earned recognition from the Delaware Recreation and Parks Society and the Mid-Atlantic Boxing Association for its impact on youth engagement, athletic development, and fostering community pride. With Phillips’ appointment, she becomes the first woman to lead the department since its founding in 1886.

“I’m deeply honored to continue serving the people of Wilmington and to support Mayor Carney’s bold vision for our parks and communities,” said Dr. Phillips. “This department has made incredible progress in recent years, and I’m committed to expanding access to safe, vibrant spaces and high-quality programs that meet the needs of every neighborhood. Together with our dedicated team, I look forward to building a stronger, more inclusive Wilmington.”

Joining her in leadership is Deputy Director Tanya Warner, a lifelong Wilmington resident with experience in strategic leadership, workforce development, and project management. Warner has overseen multi-million-dollar government programs and led trauma-informed initiatives aimed at improving services for Delaware families.

“As a native Wilmingtonian, it’s a tremendous honor to serve the city I love,” Warner said. “I’m excited to work alongside Dr. Phillips and our dedicated team to help elevate the important work already underway in our parks and neighborhoods. Parks and Recreation plays a critical role in uplifting both youth and adults, and I look forward to building inclusive spaces and programs that reflect the pride and potential of our community.”

Together, Phillips and Warner will guide the department’s efforts to expand programming, improve park maintenance and capital planning, and build stronger community partnerships.

“We’re not just investing in parks,” said Mayor Carney. “We’re investing in people, in neighborhoods, and in the future of our city.”