Bryan County Recreation Department Director Dr. Samose Mays recently appeared as a featured guest on an episode of the popular Zoom show, “Good News: in Parks.” The monthly show, created by PlayCore and GameTime, is now in its second season. It brings together top professionals in the field of parks and recreation to discuss relevant topics, offer insights, and share best practices. The episode featuring Mays aired Sept. 9 and is now available for viewing here: https://events.playcore.com/good-news-episode-2-9

During his appearance, Mays talked about some of the programs and initiatives he’s implemented in Bryan County during his seven years on the job. His part-time teaching role at Georgia Southern University has led Mays to set up an internship program that allows Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies majors the opportunity to intern with the Bryan County Recreation Department. Under his supervision, the internship participants gain first-hand experience by helping in the day-to-day maintenance, operation and planning tasks required to keep the department running smoothly. Since Mays facilitates the program, he ensures that what interns learn on-site is relevant and connected to the curriculum they cover in the classroom. The internship helps to guarantee that Bryan County gets the most qualified and helpful students, who often express interest in coming to work for the county once they complete their studies.

Last fall, Mays teamed with several other parks and recreation leaders from around the nation to form the Minority Recreational Leadership Academy. The organization provides support to minority recreational professionals regarding career advancement, academic empowerment, internships and mentoring within the parks and recreation industry which, typically, does not have substantial levels of minority representation. 

Mays is nationally certified through the National Recreation and Park Association. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Georgia Southern University in 2011 and 2013, respectively, and his Doctor of Education in Athletic Administration in 2016. Mays has served as Bryan County's recreation director since March 2014.

For more information about the Bryan County Recreation Department, please visit www.bryancountyga.org. To learn more about “Good News: in Parks,” please visit www.playcore.com/season2.