Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District is celebrating one of its own after Stewardship Program Manager Sierra Kross received the 2026 Emerging Professional Award from the Washington Recreation & Park Association. The statewide award recognizes rising leaders who demonstrate exceptional initiative, commitment, and impact in the parks and recreation profession.
Kross has built her career around environmental stewardship, youth workforce development, and increasing access to nature-based education. Her experience includes work with the Peace Corps, Great Peninsula Conservancy, Kitsap County Parks, and now the Park District, where she leads volunteer programs and supports youth conservation initiatives such as the Student Conservation Corps (SCoCo).
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for all those who have supported me on my path to achieve the Emerging Professional Award,” Kross said. “Just about five years ago, I took a position in the AmeriCorps VISTA program, hoping to get back into working outside and connecting people to the natural world during the pandemic.”
A key part of Kross’s work has focused on developing hands-on environmental education opportunities for youth. During her time with Great Peninsula Conservancy, she helped create Land Labs, a place-based learning program that continues to connect students to local ecosystems through outdoor education and exploration.
Her leadership continued to grow through her work in parks and conservation, eventually leading to her current role supporting volunteer stewardship and mentoring young people entering the environmental field.
“Sierra has proven herself to be an exceptional professional, trusted leader, and invaluable asset to our organization,” said Morgan Houk, Natural Resource Manager for the Park District. Houk also praised Kross’s work mentoring SCoCo members and helping create meaningful workforce development opportunities for local youth.
Kross said the award reflects the many mentors, colleagues, and community members who supported her journey. “I feel fortunate to serve in a position that links my interests, working alongside other inspirational professionals,” she said. “Cheers to the supportive community of parks and environmental professionals in Kitsap and across the state!”