CULLMAN, Ala. – A familiar face is returning to the Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism offices. Nathan Anderson is stepping into his former role as CPRST Executive Director, and he and his family are happy to be coming home. Anderson stepped down from his position in 2019 but says he and his family always imagined returning to Cullman at some point. Now he’s excited to be coming back to work with a familiar team.
“We always hoped we would return to Cullman one day; it’s something we have prayed about. Cullman is our home, and we missed our friends and family,” Anderson said. “I am looking forward to working with such an amazing team of talented individuals whose passion drives them to make Cullman the best place to live.”
Anderson moved to Nashville a couple of years ago to take over as CEO of 46 Entertainment and had to deal with an unusual set of challenges when the pandemic shutdown hit in spring 2020. The past years haven’t gone the way anyone in any industry planned but Anderson feels like the unique experience of working with that team in such a trying time will only help him grow as a problem solver in the future.
“I will always be thankful for the opportunity Nathan Baugh and the 46 Team gave me. Being a part of an industry and team that was severely impacted by the shutdown was one of the most sobering moments I’ve ever had in my professional career,” Anderson said. “The highpoint of the challenging 18 months of the shutdown was working every day with a very creative and tenacious team who strived to keep both companies moving forward, not solely focused on surviving, but thriving through the pandemic shutdown. I will always be grateful for that experience and team, and it has taught me so much about resourcefulness and never giving up.”
Anderson was part of several local park improvements and advancements during his first tenure with CPRST. He already has some upcoming projects on his mind and he’s excited to hit the ground running once again.
“The Park Board, City leadership and CPRST team have done an amazing job keeping the agency moving forward. I’m especially excited about the plans to continue the small park renovations, the water park expansion and the new sports complex and Civic Center,” Anderson said. “I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and helping the team make these ventures into successful additions that will benefit our community. There are so many exciting things happening in Cullman! I can’t wait to get to work!”
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