The City of Petersburg is pleased to announce the selection of Marquis Allen as the Director of Recreation, Special Events & Volunteerism. In this position, Mr. Allen will be responsible for overseeing all recreational programs, facilities, volunteers, and special events which promote personal growth, social development, and healthy lifestyles for the citizens of Petersburg.
“Recreation, Special Events & Volunteerism is instrumental in developing and implementing comprehensive programs to improve the quality of life for our residents,” said City Manager Stuart Turille. “The City has committed Recovery funding to expand programming and improve recreational spaces. Recreation, Special Events & Volunteerism will lead the City’s goal of developing and implementing programs that will improve the health of our City.”
Allen comes to Petersburg with over 20 years of recreational experience and has served as the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation in Dinwiddie County since 2018. His expertise includes partnering with schools in the development of after school sports activities for youth and the management of a multi-million-dollar sports complex that hosted invitational baseball and softball tournaments.
“Mr. Allen demonstrated that he has the experience and leadership to energize and grow Recreation, Special Events & Volunteerism,” said Deputy City Manager Tangela Innis. “He has the skills to create a sense of community and place that connects citizens to a variety of experiences while supporting health and wellness.”
Allen has held numerous recreation and youth services positions in multiple jurisdictions including Henrico, Goochland, and Richmond. He is a motivational speaker for youth and a basketball referee.
“I look forward to growing Petersburg’s Recreation, Special Events & Volunteerism while working with the city team to develop and expand programming and events that are critical in serving residents,” said Allen. “The City is committed to a Community Center in the future and I am excited to be a member of the development team.”
Mr. Allen earned a degree in Business Management with a concentration in Human Resources Management from Virginia State University. He is married to Tanesha Johnson Allen, and they have with two daughters.