Bristol Twp Announces New Leadership in Parks & Recreation Dept

Bristol Township recently announced the appointments of a brand new leadership team for the parks and recreation department to lead the municipality in its next phase of growth.

Patrick Graham, CPRE, was hired as Parks & Recreation Director, Nicole Tener, CPRP, M.Ed., as Recreation Division Manager, and the promotion of Dana Coleman to Parks Division Manager, township officials said.

“These appointments position Bristol Township for the next phase of growth in our parks and recreation services,” said Township Manager Randee Mazur. “Patrick brings strategic leadership and fiscal discipline. Nicole strengthens our programming and community engagement efforts. Dana provides deep institutional knowledge and operational stability. Together, this team will deliver high-quality services, maintain our facilities responsibly, and expand opportunities for residents of all ages.”

These appointments strengthen the Township’s commitment to quality parks, strong recreation programs, and responsible management of public facilities.

A Bristol Twp Parks & Rec employee during preparations for a outdoor concert at the municipal complex Credit: Jeff Bohen, Lower Bucks Source

Graham joined Bristol Township as Parks & Recreation Director on March 2, 2026. He will lead department operations, planning, and long-term strategy. He will oversee both the Parks and Recreation divisions and work closely with staff to strengthen programs, services, and facilities for residents. Graham brings more than 10 years of municipal parks and recreation leadership experience. He most recently served as Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation for Middletown Township. There, he helped manage services for more than 46,000 residents and oversaw an annual operating budget of $1.8 million.

“I am thrilled and honored to be joining Bristol Township to lead the Parks & Recreation Department,” said Graham. “My focus will be expanding recreational opportunities for all ages, ensuring our parks are safe and well-maintained to high standards, and providing a strategic, long-term vision to continue improving the Bristol Township Parks System for our community. I look forward to working with residents, community partners, and Township leadership to make that vision a reality.”

Croydon Acres Park
Credit: Bristol Township

Tener joined Bristol Township as Recreation Division Manager on March 2, 2026. She will manage recreation programming, events, and community engagement efforts. She will oversee daily operations within the Recreation Division and support program development and service delivery.

Tener most recently served as Program Specialist for Middletown Township Parks & Recreation. She managed more than 20 community recreation classes, oversaw instructors and registrations, and supported camp programs and seasonal staff. She also led social media strategy and designed email campaigns that reached more than 3,000 residents.

Her background in education, communications, and community programming will support strong outreach and responsive recreation services in Bristol Township.

The township promoted Coleman to Parks Division Manager in January 2026. She joined Bristol Township in September 2014, serving in three departments: as Receptionist for the Finance Office, Community Service Officer with the Police Department, and most recently as Administrative Assistant for the Parks and Recreation Department.

In her prior role, she worked closely with the Playground Inspector and Public Works Department to address park and playground repairs, coordinate maintenance, and support Township events. She has served as the logistical backbone of the department and large special events, coordinating vendors, equipment, permits, and interdepartmental support to ensure events operate smoothly and on schedule.

Marie Lowe Park
Credit: Bristol Twp

As Parks Division Manager, Coleman will oversee parks maintenance, facilities, and related operations. Her experience across departments and her knowledge of Township operations will support efficient and responsive park services.

These appointments strengthen the Township’s commitment to quality parks, strong recreation programs, and responsible management of public facilities, officials said.

The new parks and recreation team will be formally introduced at Thursday night’s Council meeting

The Township features 32 park areas, 26 playgrounds, walking paths, athletic fields, basketball courts, and picnic pavilions, serving the more than 54,000 residents.