The City of Cupertino is pleased to announce the appointment and promotion of Rachelle Sander as the new Director of Parks and Recreation. Sander has been the Acting Director of Parks and Recreation since July, and officially assumed this new role on October 10.
“We are thrilled to promote Rachelle into this role, as she brings with her a deep knowledge and understanding of our community,” said City Manager Pamela Wu. “I am confident that our City will benefit from her experience.”
Sander has served the City of Cupertino for more than 20 years, having started her career as a part-time Recreation Leader in 2001. She was hired full-time in 2005 and has worked in multiple positions, most recently as the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation. During her tenure, Sander has led numerous programs, created new recreation opportunities to meet the changing needs of the community, refined department policies, streamlined internal and external operations, and much more.
“I am extremely excited to continue working with the amazing Parks and Recreation team, my incredible City colleagues, the passionate Cupertino community, and our supportive partners in this new role,” stated Sander.
Sander is the second generation of her family to be raised in Cupertino. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from San Diego State University, and enjoys traveling, hiking, and photography in her spare time.