Staff

Jeannette Huber, CPRP – Director of Parks and Recreation

Jeannette Huber joined the Alsip Park District team in 2004 as the Superintendent of Recreation.  In 2005 she assumed the duties as Interim Director of Parks and Recreation and later officially accepted this position where she remains today.  She attended Culver-Stockton College where she obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Recreation Management.  She went on to receive her Masters Degree in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University.  Jeannette along with her husband Mike live in Alsip with their three children; Matthew, Mikey and Mackenzie.  They are very active with their family in Alsip and also volunteer for park and recreation initiatives throughout the state. 

Jennifer Torres, MPA – Superintendent of Recreation

Jennifer Torres joined the Alsip Park District team in May 2024 as the Superintendent of Recreation. In 2020, she earned her Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from Governor’s State University. Jennifer has managed events and programs at libraries, municipalities, community centers, and park districts for over 15 years. She is committed to the continual growth and development of the Alsip Park District staff and community development. Jennifer is very excited to hit the ground running and bring nothing but greatness to the Alsip Park District!

Sue Bruesch – Business Manager

Chris Grubb – Superintendent of Parks

Chris has a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Loyola University Chicago and ten years of experience as a commercial construction field superintendent and carpenter. When out of the office, you’ll find Chris backcountry backpacking, cycling and paddling the many beautiful natural spaces in Illinois and throughout the National Parks System.  “Live in the sunshine, swim the sea and drink the wild air.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Mike DeChene – CPSI Park Forman

Richard Gottardo – Fountain Hills G. C. Manager

Rich Gottardo joined the Alsip Park District team in 2003 as the General Manager of the Fountain Hills Golf Club. His prior work experience was with the Jemsek family, owners of Cog Hill Country Club. Rich began his 30 years of golf course industry management at Cog Hill Country Club, Lemont, Illinois in 1990 as an Assistant Manager.  During this time, he also oversaw the outside food & beverage concession operations for the Western Open PGA golf tournament that was played at Cog Hill CC.  In 1999 he then went on to be the General Manager at the SummerGrove GC in Newnan, Georgia.  Rich enjoys the time that he gets to spend with his wife and son playing golf every chance they can find.

Danielle Peso Companio – Food & Beverage Manager

Danielle joined the Fountain Hills Golf Course staff in May of 2017.  She has been working in the hospitality industry for over 20 years.  She is also BASSET (Beverage, Alcohol Sellers & Server Education & Training) instructor and has been an instructor for over 15 years.  She currently lives in Oak Forest with her 4 children.

Leslie Guerrera, A.C.E., CPO – Aquatic/Fitness Supervisor

Leslie has worked at the park district for thirty years. Her park district career started in 1989 as a part time building attendant. When the park district added on the new addition in 1996, she was promoted to the Fitness Manager of our brand-new fitness center. In 2008, Leslie was again given the opportunity to take on the Aquatic Manager position along with her Fitness Manager duties. Leslie has two adult children and two grand kids. She enjoys exercising and many outdoor activities. Leslie states that “I’m very happy I chose the recreation field and to be a “ Parkie” for life. I am proud to be working with such a dedicated and creative team.”

Payton Presler – Athletic Supervisor

Payton Presler joined the Alsip Park District team in December of 2024 as the Athletic Supervisor. In 2021, he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Recreation Management from Illinois State University. Payton has worked in the field of Recreation & Athletics for 4 years now. Payton enjoys spending time in the outdoors at parks, by freshwater, walking trails, or at sporting events. When Payton is not outdoors, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends. Payton is looking forward to being able to provide amazing athletic opportunities to all!

Denise Merlo, CPP – Recreation Supervisor

Denise has been a full time employee of the Alsip Park District since 2001. She began as a front office worker and currently is a Recreation Supervisor overseeing special events, adult programs, trips, volunteer recruitment, and sponsorship solicitation. Denise designs the seasonal program brochures and various marketing materials throughout the year. Along with her wonderful husband, Rocco, and two awesome children, she strives to engage the community by stressing the importance of family, recreation, and good old-fashioned play!

Madilyn Petrusevski – Recreation Supervisor

Madilyn Petrusevski joined the Alsip Park District team in December of 2024 as a Recreation Supervisor, where she oversees the Preschool Program, Before and After School Program, and both Youth and Teen Recreation Programs. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Saint Xavier University in May of 2024. Madilyn is dedicated to enhancing the overall engagement within these programs and is focused on creating new opportunities for the Alsip Park District!

Donna Smith – Office Manager

Donna began her career at the Alsip Park District in 2003 working in the Women’s Circuit Center. In 2007, she changed positions moving to the front office and being a part-time office support staff, she was promoted to her current full-time position as Office Manager in 2016. She has resided in Alsip for over 30 years.

Erica Jagust – Office Support Staff

Erica began as a Building Attendant at the Alsip Park District in 1994.  Through out her career here, she has held positions as the Piano Instructor and Play and Learn Class instructor.  In 2008, she became a part time Office Support Staff member which was transitioned to full time member in 2019.  Erica grew up in Alsip and is a proud member of Alsip community to this day!

Jackie Nelson – Office Support Staff

Jackie started at the Alsip Park District in August of 2016 as a part-time Office Support Staff member.  In Spring of 2018, she was promoted to Full-time Office Support Staff.  Jackie, along with her husband David and four children, have resided in Alsip for over 30 years.  They have been active members of the Alsip Park District since 1997.

Main Office – General E-Mail