Ternard Turner is the Director of the City of South Fulton Parks and Recreation Department and a veteran parks and recreation professional with more than 30 years of experience. He oversees five recreation facilities and 19 parks across the city, managing a $9M operating budget and more than $7M in capital improvement projects. His leadership ensures that South Fulton residents benefit from modern, high-quality facilities and innovative recreational opportunities.
Throughout his career, Turner has developed programs that have left a lasting impact on communities. In South Fulton, he has introduced signature initiatives such as the award-winning Balling with a Purpose workforce and basketball program, Saturday School tutoring for students, and the groundbreaking Spectrum Explorers Autism Camp—the first of its kind on Atlanta’s Southside. He has also delivered major capital projects, including significant renovations across multiple recreation centers and park facilities. A Certified Public Manager (CPM), Turner is a three-time City of South Fulton Proclamation recipient, a Georgia Recreation and Park Association (GRPA) Award winner, and a Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) Visionary Award winner. His 30+ year career reflects an enduring commitment to community impact, equity, and the power of recreation to transform lives.