Daniel Peter Hopkins, 55, the superintendent for recreation in the city of Asheville, will start as the new director on Sept. 13, Cary said in a news release today.

Hopkins was selected by town manager Ben Shivar from a pool of 168 applicants from eight states.

"Cary's consistent rankings as one of the best places to live in he nation is due in part to its high quality parks, recreation and cultural programming and facilities, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to join such an outstanding organization," Hopkins said in a prepared statement.

Hopkins has a bachelor's degree in child welfare and recreation from the State University of New York - Empire State College. He also holds a graduate-level degree in human resources management from the University of Sarasota in Florida.

"I believe that Danny has the experience, enthusiasm, leadership and commitment to service necessary to lead our program," Shivar said in a prepared statement.

As director, Hopkins will oversee a staff of nearly 70 regular employees and more than 900 temporary employees.

Hopkins replaces Mary Henderson, who retired in June after 28 years of working with the town.