Login to Complete an Application or to Access Reviewing Panel
Christopher K. Jarvi
1944 - 2013
Inducted September 2025 |
"He envisioned a future where parks and recreation professionals would have the resources to forge new partnerships and continually expand their impact on community health and livability. His belief that "Building partnerships and networking are the most integral part of growing as a professional in our field" remains a guiding principle for many in our industry. " |
Christopher K. Jarvi profoundly shaped the park and recreation landscape, leaving an indelible legacy across all levels of service. Inspired by his forester father, he balanced recreation use with resource preservation throughout his distinguished career. After pivotal roles with Los Angeles County and the Catalina Island Conservancy, Jarvi dedicated 22 years to the City of Anaheim as Director of Community Services, where he cultivated community relations and championed quality of life initiatives for residents.
His influence soared at the national level when he became Associate Director for Partnerships and Visitor Experience for the National Park Service (NPS). Here, Jarvi spearheaded a national portfolio for partnerships, philanthropy, volunteerism, and youth programs, critically reorganizing the Partnership Office and leading the creation of the Service's foundational Interpretation and Education Renaissance Action Plan. He also advised Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on establishing a 21st Century Conservation Corps for youth, demonstrating his commitment to the next generation of conservationists.
Jarvi's dedication extended to professional leadership, serving as President of both the California Parks and Recreation Society and the National Recreation and Park Association. His vision fostered critical partnerships and elevated the profession. Recognized with numerous prestigious honors, including the NRPA Distinguished Fellow Award and the Cornelius Amory Pugsley Award, Christopher K. Jarvi's unwavering commitment to enriching lives through parks and recreation forged a lasting impact on communities and the national park system. Jarvi’s legacy and impact is also reflected through the creation of the national scholarship for the advancement of partnerships in his name.