Benderson Park organization hires CEO

The organization in charge of Nathan Benderson Park has chosen a new president and CEO.

The Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates board of directors, known as SANCA, this month hired Robert Sullivan as its new leader, according to a news release. The move comes more than three months after former President and CEO Paul Blakketter resigned from the position.

“Nathan Benderson Park has established itself as a premier rowing center and versatile county park hosting a multitude of community sponsored events,” Sullivan said in the release.   “I am excited to begin working with the SANCA board, the staff and Sarasota County Government, taking NBP to the next level of excellence locally and on a world stage.”

Sullivan previously managed the Multi-Purpose Events Center (MPEC) in Wichita Falls, Texas, which houses a 1,200-seat agricultural center, a 58,000-square-foot meeting hall and a park, along with an auditorium that seats 2,700 guests and a coliseum that seats 6,500 people.

“(Sullivan’s) mindset that public venues are designed to provide a variety of events and activities that enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities for the citizens and businesses in the community mirrors our philosophy,” said SANCA Chairman Bill Robinson in the release. “We are confident he is the right person to lead Nathan Benderson Park and the great team we currently have in place.”