Lancaster Rec Names Jack Bingeman Executive Director
Bingeman, a 22-year commission veteran, succeeds Heather Dighe, who led the agency for 10 years.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in People
The Lancaster Recreation Commission has named Jack Bingeman as its new executive director, announced Monday. Bingeman has spent 22 years with the commission and succeeds Heather Dighe, who concluded her 10-year tenure in the role.
Why it matters
The leadership change follows a formal search the commission's board began in August, and the choice of an internal candidate keeps long-term institutional knowledge within the agency. Bingeman is expected to guide the commission into 2027 as it continues serving Lancaster County residents.
Jack Bingeman brings 22 years of experience with the Lancaster Recreation Commission into the executive director role, succeeding Heather Dighe, who served 10 years. The source does not specify the commission's budget, staffing, or program metrics under the new leadership.
The players
Lancaster Recreation Commission
The Lancaster County public agency that oversees recreation programs and facilities for area residents, governed by a board that conducted the executive director search.
Jack Bingeman
A longtime employee of the Lancaster Recreation Commission with 22 years of service, now serving as its executive director.
Heather Dighe
The former executive director of the Lancaster Recreation Commission, who led the agency for 10 years before concluding her tenure.
The details
The Lancaster Recreation Commission Board initiated a formal search for a new executive director in August and selected Bingeman in mid-October. The announcement was made on Monday, November 9, 2026, and Bingeman will continue his career with the commission in the new role.
Timeline
August 2026: The Board initiated a formal search for a new executive director.
Mid-October 2026: Jack Bingeman was selected as executive director.
Monday, November 9, 2026: The Lancaster Recreation Commission announced the appointment.
2027: Lancaster Rec is expected to have a successful start under Bingeman.
Market Landscape
The appointment marks a transition from Heather Dighe's 10-year tenure as executive director to Jack Bingeman, who rose through the commission over 22 years. The internal promotion continues a pattern of leadership continuity within the agency rather than an outside hire.
Residents who use Lancaster Recreation Commission programs and facilities will be served by a new executive director beginning in 2027. The source does not indicate any immediate changes to fees, program schedules, or facility access.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions at public recreation agencies often shape program direction for years, so residents interested in the commission's priorities may find it useful to follow its board meetings and public announcements as the new director takes office.
Further reading
For more on Lancaster leadership changes, explore People coverage on Wisevoter.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WHP.
