South Bend losing a key player in city's recent development
Photo credit: South Bend Venues Parks & Arts (Perri is 3rd from left) South Bend Venues Parks and Arts Executive Director Aaron Perri has announced his intentions to take a new position with a national firm.
Perri has served South Bend for 12 years in community development, five of those years as Executive Director of Downtown South Bend. His last day in this role will be June 1. Deputy Executive Director Jordan Gathers will serve as the interim executive director.
“I’m grateful to Mayor Mueller for the opportunity to serve my hometown, for the efforts of my committed city colleagues who will carry our momentum forward, and for the extremely generous support of this community,” said Perri. “While no words of thanks could ever suffice, I hope the value of your contributions are reflected well in the things you cherish most in our city.”
Under Perri's leadership, renovations were made to eight city parks, the city flag was redesigned, the South Bend River Lights were installed, and the My SB Parks & Trails initiative was created. Perri was also instrumental in special celebration projects and committees celebrating South Bend's 150-year anniversary and Morris 100.