Carmel Clay Park Board approves naming of Central Park Woodlands as “Susannah H. Dillon Woods”

At the final Park Board meeting of 2025, the Carmel Clay Board of Parks and Recreation honored Sue Dillon by renaming the Central Park Woodlands as the “Susannah H. Dillon Woods,” recognizing her dedication and service to Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR).

In 1988, Dillon and a passionate group of citizens founded the not-for-profit Citizens for Greenspace, where she served as the organization’s first president. Part of their mission statement was to support the development of parks and a strong urban forestry program in Carmel and Clay Township. This grassroots effort laid the foundation for the park system the city enjoys today.

Building on this momentum, the Clay Township Board proposed the creation of a parks department in 1991, leading to the launch of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. Dillon was appointed to the very first Park Board, serving 16 years from 1991 to 1994 and from 1999 to 2010, including seven years as President and six years as Vice President. Her leadership helped guide the park system through its most formative years.

“Few individuals have had a more profound impact on the Carmel Clay park system than Sue Dillon,” CCPR Director and CEO Michael Klitzing said. “Her vision, advocacy and unwavering service have enriched the quality of life for past, present and future residents of the community.”

In recognition of her legacy, the woods north and south of Central Park Drive East will now be named in her honor. A dedication and sign unveiling will take place in June 2026.