Meet mParks President: Lori Irwin

Where do you work?
Associate Professor - Event and Recreation Management, Central Michigan University

What is your role within mParks?
mParks President

What is your favorite park?
Sturgeon Bay - Wilderness State Park

What's your go-to snack to fuel those energy-packed moments at work?
Diet Coke

Describe your perfect day at the park.
Family, friends, and our dogs hanging on the beach with a lot of swimming, walking the beach, laying in the sun, games, and food and beverages.

What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?
I loved the spirit and passion of all of the professionals I saw working in the industry and their ability to create amazing opportunities and fun for people in their communities. Recreation professionals take their jobs seriously, but not themselves and love to have fun! I love that our industry truly improves the quality of people's lives!

What do you enjoy most about working in parks and recreation?
I've learned that no matter how bad of a day I may have, I can reflect on the fact that I am still working towards a goal to help make someone else's day better!