Meet the mParks Staff

Executive Director

Nichole Fisher

Nichole joined mParks in September 2023. Nichole graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree. Nichole has over 23 years of experience in association/nonprofit management and parks and recreation. Before accepting this position, Nichole held various positions, including Ngage Management Association Director, Michigan Society of Association Executives Director of Development and Strategic Partnerships, MRPA Professional Development Manager, and City of East Lansing Parks, Recreation and Arts Recreation Coordinator.. Nichole brings experience and a proven track record of success, which will be invaluable in meetingmParks goals and initiatives. She strongly advocates parks and recreation, has extensive experience managing in-house and remote teams, and has created and accomplished organizational strategic plans and goals. Nichole has a professional executive presence and can communicate effectively with stakeholders, including mParks members and staff, vendors, partner organizations, and policymakers. 

Director of Operations and Finance

Justin Lippe

Justin joined mParks in September 2008 after having served as the Community Education Director for Charlotte Public Schools. He also worked as a Recreation Coordinator for Burlington Parks & Recreation in Vermont and as a Recreation Programmer for Novi Parks & Recreation after receiving his bachelor's degree in Recreation Management & Policy from the University of New Hampshire. He currently resides in Williamston with his wife and three children.

Director of Communication and Strategic Partnerships

Tina Nowakowski

Tina originally joined mParks in 2012 as a communications intern, transitioning to a full-time role as she finished her degree in Journalism and Public Relations from Michigan State. After more than two years with mParks, Tina explored the political world as a Field Organizer for a statewide campaign and then took over as the Communications & Community Outreach Specialist with the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness, all while assisting mParks with special projects, including Conference. Tina enjoys running, kayaking, cooking and traveling.

Education and Training Manager

Shannon Coker

Shannon joined the mParks team in 2024 as a seasoned professional in parks and recreation, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep dedication to advancing the field. Transitioning from her role as Assistant Director at Northville Parks and Recreation to prioritize family moments, Shannon has joined the dynamic team at mParks, marking an exciting new chapter in her career. With roots tracing back to assisting her father, a former Parks and Recreation Director, Shannon's lifelong passion for the field has flourished through diverse roles and academic pursuits, culminating in her graduation from Saginaw Valley State University. Beyond her professional endeavors, Shannon finds profound joy in her roles as a devoted wife and mother of three in Howell, recognizing the importance of cherishing family moments alongside her professional pursuits.

mParks is currently hiring for a Membership Engagement Coordinator.

Click here to learn more and apply!