Recognizing Those Who Lead with Purpose
Each year, mParks proudly honors exceptional individuals who go above and beyond to elevate the parks and recreation profession. These awards celebrate those whose daily work builds stronger communities, whose leadership inspires peers, and whose vision moves the field forward.
Whether they are just starting their careers or have spent decades investing in others, honorees reflect the highest standards of professionalism, service, and heart. Now is the time to recognize the people who make parks and recreation what it is — vibrant, inclusive, and essential.
Nominations are due October 31, 2026, and award notifications will be sent by December 9, 2026.
Awards will be presented at the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa | February 2-5, 2027.
Whether they are just starting their careers or have spent decades investing in others, honorees reflect the highest standards of professionalism, service, and heart. Now is the time to recognize the people who make parks and recreation what it is — vibrant, inclusive, and essential.
Nominations are due October 31, 2026, and award notifications will be sent by December 9, 2026.
Awards will be presented at the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa | February 2-5, 2027.
Professional Award Categories
Fellowship Award
This is the highest honor bestowed by mParks. The Fellowship Award recognizes a member who has dedicated at least 20 years to advancing the field and guiding others. This individual leads by example — professionally, ethically, and personally — and has a history of mentoring, supporting, and inspiring fellow professionals.
This is the highest honor bestowed by mParks. The Fellowship Award recognizes a member who has dedicated at least 20 years to advancing the field and guiding others. This individual leads by example — professionally, ethically, and personally — and has a history of mentoring, supporting, and inspiring fellow professionals.
Recreation Leadership Award
Recognizing creative and impactful leadership in recreation programming, this award honors a member with at least 10 years of mParks membership who has enriched lives through innovative and inclusive recreational opportunities.
Recognizing creative and impactful leadership in recreation programming, this award honors a member with at least 10 years of mParks membership who has enriched lives through innovative and inclusive recreational opportunities.
Park Maintenance Leadership Award
This award highlights excellence in areas such as park maintenance, resource management, equipment practices, and environmental stewardship. Open to professionals at any stage of mParks membership, this award celebrates those who care for our public spaces with passion and precision.
This award highlights excellence in areas such as park maintenance, resource management, equipment practices, and environmental stewardship. Open to professionals at any stage of mParks membership, this award celebrates those who care for our public spaces with passion and precision.
New Professional Award
The future of parks and recreation is bright — and this award celebrates those lighting the way. The New Professional Award recognizes individuals who have worked full time in the field for five years or fewer, but whose dedication to their agency, community, and mParks already sets them apart.
The future of parks and recreation is bright — and this award celebrates those lighting the way. The New Professional Award recognizes individuals who have worked full time in the field for five years or fewer, but whose dedication to their agency, community, and mParks already sets them apart.
Local Official Award
This award honors a local elected or appointed official who has shown meaningful support for parks and recreation. Their decisions and leadership have enhanced quality of life and expanded access to public spaces in the communities they serve.
Elected Official Award
Presented to a federal or state-level elected official (representative, senator, governor, etc.) whose work and advocacy have positively impacted the field of parks and recreation throughout Michigan.
This award honors a local elected or appointed official who has shown meaningful support for parks and recreation. Their decisions and leadership have enhanced quality of life and expanded access to public spaces in the communities they serve.
Elected Official Award
Presented to a federal or state-level elected official (representative, senator, governor, etc.) whose work and advocacy have positively impacted the field of parks and recreation throughout Michigan.
How to Submit a Standout Nomination
To give your nominee the best chance of being recognized, please ensure your nomination tells a full and compelling story of their impact. Include specifics, examples, and support materials that illustrate how your nominee brings the mission of parks and recreation to life.
Award Nominations are currently closed and will reopen in October 2026. |
Nominations are evaluated based on:
🔹 Some awards may not be given each year, depending on the number and strength of nominations |
