Friday, December 19, 2025
On Thursday, Dec. 18, the Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) Board of Directors approved Annie M. Kubes as Milwaukee Recreation’s 12th senior director in the department’s 114-year history. Kubes’ first day in the role will be Dec. 29. She will succeed Brian D. Litzsey, who was promoted to MPS' chief family, community & partnerships officer position in August.
Kubes brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked continuously for the department in various part-time and full-time capacities since the age of 16. In addition, Kubes is an MPS alum who spent her childhood enjoying the full range of Milwaukee Recreation’s year-round programming. Kubes began her career as an MPS special education teacher before joining Milwaukee Recreation as the adaptive athletics supervisor in 2005. In 2012, she was promoted to citywide coordinator, overseeing adaptive athletics, adult sports, aquatics, driver education, outdoor education, senior adult programs, Special Olympics, and therapeutic recreation for individuals with disabilities. In 2019, Kubes moved into a part-time role as Milwaukee Recreation’s special projects coordinator when she was named executive director of the McGinnity Family Foundation.
“In Annie’s previous role as Milwaukee Recreation’s citywide coordinator, she demonstrated compassionate leadership and a clear sense of vision and purpose,” said Litzsey. “She played a key role in establishing new and innovative programs, and in developing policies and procedures that supported effective daily operations. Annie will help lead Milwaukee Recreation to even greater success through strong staff and community engagement, efficient operations, and a customer-centered approach to service delivery.”
Kubes holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a special education licensure from the Milwaukee Teacher Education Center (MTEC), and a Master of Arts in Urban Education from Marian University.
Andrew Rossa, who served as interim director until Kubes’ appointment, will continue his role as manager of operations.