Leisure Services

The Director of Leisure Services coordinates the functions of all aspects of the department including, but not limited to year-round programming, facility usage, performing arts, senior services, Welcome Center, and park maintenance to assure smooth operations by and between all divisions.

The administrator is also responsible for determining need and selecting personnel necessary for the successful operation of the department, ascertaining present and future needs for recreation areas, facilities, and programs, and preparing short and long-term plans to meet these needs.

In addition, the director develops and oversees all department budget requirements, establishes office procedure and policy, and structures a system of reporting, evaluating, and publicizing the work of the department.

The Director regularly confers with community groups and individuals, interprets the scope and purpose of present operations, and continually looks toward improving and advancing the department.

Susan V. Elder is Director of Leisure Services. Mrs. Elder has lived and worked in the Upper Darby Community her entire life. A graduate of Upper Darby High School and Millersville University, Mrs. Elder began her career as a summer playground counselor while attending college. She joined the department as a full-time staff member in 1974, and was named Director in 2003.

Mrs. Elder has done post-graduate work at Penn State University, and holds the rank of Certified Leisure Professional in the field of recreation and parks in the state of Pennsylvania. She is a member of the PA Recreation and Parks Society, the National Recreation and Park Association, and the National Arbor Day Foundation, and has received certificates in areas such as executive management, liability and risk management, swimming pool management, and playground safety.