Directors & Legislators Networking Summit
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Below, you'll find a complete overview of the day's sessions, downloadable copies of speaker presentations, and links to SnapSight AI session insights for each presentation and discussion.
SnapSight is an AI-powered meeting intelligence platform that automatically captures, transcribes, and analyzes presentations and conversations. Using advanced AI, it identifies key themes, summarizes important takeaways, highlights action items, and generates searchable insights, making it easy to revisit and share the most valuable content from each session. These resources are designed to help you continue the conversations, explore key ideas, and maximize the value of your Summit experience long after the event concludes.
SnapSight is an AI-powered meeting intelligence platform that automatically captures, transcribes, and analyzes presentations and conversations. Using advanced AI, it identifies key themes, summarizes important takeaways, highlights action items, and generates searchable insights, making it easy to revisit and share the most valuable content from each session. These resources are designed to help you continue the conversations, explore key ideas, and maximize the value of your Summit experience long after the event concludes.
Resilient Leadership: Managing Energy, Stress, and Expectations
Mimi Brown, CSP, CEO, AMP Up Success
Leadership is demanding - and the pressure to constantly deliver can take a toll. In this session, Mimi Brown explores practical strategies to help leaders manage stress, protect their energy, and stay grounded while maintaining high performance. Participants will walk away with tools to lead effectively without sacrificing their well-being. To learn more about her work and resources, visit her website at AMP Up Success.
Mimi Brown, CSP, CEO, AMP Up Success
Leadership is demanding - and the pressure to constantly deliver can take a toll. In this session, Mimi Brown explores practical strategies to help leaders manage stress, protect their energy, and stay grounded while maintaining high performance. Participants will walk away with tools to lead effectively without sacrificing their well-being. To learn more about her work and resources, visit her website at AMP Up Success.
Understanding Today's Lansing and the 2026 Election Outlook
Zachary Gorchow, President of Michigan Operations, Gongwer News Service
As Michigan prepares for the 2026 election cycle, staying informed about the races, candidates, and political shifts shaping the state's future is more important than ever. Join Zachary Gorchow, President of Michigan Operations at Gongwer News Service, for an insider's look at Michigan's evolving political landscape and the key election contests expected to influence state policy and leadership in the years ahead. Drawing on his extensive experience covering state government and politics, Zach will provide insight into major statewide and legislative races, emerging political trends, and what organizations and local leaders should anticipate as campaigns and policy priorities take shape. Participants will gain a valuable perspective on the election environment and its potential impact on Michigan communities, public policy, and advocacy efforts.
Learning Labs
Learning Lab topics include Budget Workshop Strategies, Where to Start with Culture Change, Master Planning, Staff Meeting Ideas, Asset Management & Budgeting for Deferred Maintenance, Top 10 Trends in Parks & Recreation, and Guidance for New Directors (Getting Started During Leadership/Culture Change)
Round One
Round Two
Navigating Legal Risks & Compliance in Parks and Recreation
Olivia R.C.A. Flower, Associate, Dykema
Parks and recreation leaders are navigating an increasingly complex legal and regulatory environment. This session will explore timely legal updates, compliance considerations, and risk management strategies that impact public agencies, parks, recreation programs, and community services. Attendees will gain practical insights on topics such as policy development, liability prevention, employment practices, governance, and operational accountability. Designed specifically for parks and recreation professionals, this session will equip leaders with tools and strategies to help their organizations reduce risk, strengthen compliance, and serve their communities with confidence.
Risk Management for Park and Recreation Departments
Terry Van Doren, CPSI, CYSA, CYSC, Senior Risk Consultant, Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority
An overview of the risk management process for Park and Recreation Departments, including identifying and assessing risks, implementing effective risk control strategies, and making informed decisions to reduce or eliminate exposure. Participants will explore key risk management tools such as asset management planning and Business Continuity Plans, while also examining current and emerging trends impacting parks and recreation from a governmental risk perspective. This session will emphasize practical strategies to enhance organizational preparedness, protect assets, and support long-term operational resilience.
