Rooted in Greensboro: Carl Brower’s Park Legacy


September 17, 2024

Carl Brower’s journey from a nature-loving Greensboro youth to a pivotal figure in the city’s parks and recreation scene is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. A native of Greensboro and Grimsley High School alumnus, Carl’s love for the outdoors blossomed early, with childhood memories of fishing, horseback riding, and exploring local parks laying the foundation for his future career.

Carl’s academic path reflects his unwavering commitment to parks and recreation. He earned an Associate Degree in Parks and Recreation from Louisburg College, where he also served as class president, before continuing his studies at Barton College to complete his Bachelor’s degree. Throughout his academic journey, Carl remained actively involved in campus organizations, foreshadowing his future community leadership roles.

His professional journey began at North Carolina A&T State University, where Carl’s talent and dedication saw him rise through the ranks to become Superintendent of Grounds. Along the way, he earned numerous certifications, further solidifying his expertise in the field.

Over the years Carl has become a cornerstone of community leadership, serving on the board of Downtown Greensboro Parks Inc., the Guilford County Parks Advisory Board, and multiple terms as both vice chair and chair of the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Commission. These roles have allowed Carl to shape the future of Greensboro’s green spaces and recreational facilities, ensuring they meet the needs of all community members.

Invited by a fellow advocate, Carl joined the Greensboro Parks Foundation Board of Directors in 2022 to expand its community impact. His particular passion lies in the preservation and promotion of Gillespie Golf Course. This isn’t just another golf course; Gillespie holds a significant place in Greensboro’s civil rights history, symbolizing resilience and progress in the desegregation of public spaces. Carl’s dedication to this site underscores his commitment to preserving not just green spaces, but also the rich cultural heritage of Greensboro.

Carl Brower firmly believes that parks and recreation are essential for building community, promoting equity, and providing universal access to meaningful outdoor experiences. He encourages support for the Foundation’s work, especially projects related to Gillespie Golf Course, to preserve its historical significance and ensure its future as a vibrant community asset for generations to come.

Carl Brower’s story is one of lifelong dedication to his community. From his early days exploring Greensboro’s parks to his current role as a respected leader in parks and recreation, Carl has consistently demonstrated the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to a cause they believe in. His unwavering commitment to service and his passion for enhancing Greensboro’s parks continue to inspire and make a lasting impact on the community, ensuring that future generations will have access to the same meaningful outdoor experiences that shaped his own life.

For those considering donating or volunteering with the Greensboro Parks Foundation, Carl offers sage advice. He acknowledges the time and commitment involved but assures that the rewards of contributing to such a meaningful cause are immense. By supporting initiatives like Gillespie Golf Course, donors can help preserve important historical sites while promoting inclusivity and accessibility in Greensboro.

When not dedicating his time to improving Greensboro’s green spaces, Carl enjoys playing golf, attending sporting events, and traveling. These personal pursuits not only bring him joy but also inform his work, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the importance of recreation and community spaces.

By Tristan Bailey, Communications Manager, Guilford County Parks and Paula Barger, Executive Director