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Be a Beacon for your professional growth at the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show! This year’s program will feature nearly 70 educational sessions, including engaging breakout sessions, inspiring keynotes, and immersive offsite tours designed to spark new ideas, strengthen skills, and empower park and recreation professionals at every stage of their careers.

Explore sessions that shine a light on emerging trends, innovative solutions, and practical strategies you can apply in your organization and community. Whether you're a seasoned director, an emerging professional, or a specialist looking to expand your expertise, you'll find opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.

Educational sessions will take place Tuesday, February 2, through Friday, February 5, with the majority of breakout sessions scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.

The first wave of educational sessions is here - and there's more to come! Below, you'll find an alphabetical listing of the sessions announced so far, offering a sneak peek at the learning opportunities ahead. Session dates and times will be released as the conference schedule is finalized, and additional sessions will continue to be announced.
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Stay tuned as the lineup grows, and get ready to discover new perspectives, share your light, and Be a Beacon for the future of parks and recreation!

Sessions Listed Alphabetically by Session Title
​Session details are subject to change.

Adventure Intelligence - A Different Kind of A.I.

• Todd Poquette - Director of Adventure, 906 Adventure Team

This thought-provoking session introduces the concept of Adventure Intelligence - a different kind of A.I., grounded in the belief that true fulfillment comes from embracing challenge, connecting with nature, and building physical, mental and emotional resilience.  As society becomes increasingly reliant on innovation and comfort, participants are invited to reflect on what may be lost in the process. Learn how the 906 Adventure Team has successfully applied the Adventure Intelligence philosophy to engage and inspire employees, volunteers, and participants from across the country.
Leadership & Decision-Making

The Art of Public Service: Building Relationships with Elected Officials and City Managers

• Traci Sincock - Executive Director, Northville Historical Society
• Linda Walter, CPRP - Retired, mParks Past President
• Paul Sincock - Retired

We rely on commissions, advisory committees, and Friends Groups to provide valuable insight, community connections, advocacy, volunteer support, fundraising, and credibility. Yet these groups can sometimes become underutilized—or create frustration when roles, expectations, and communication are unclear.
 
This interactive one-hour session will explore practical ways parks and recreation professionals can build productive relationships with these important partners and maximize the value they bring to the organization and community. Participants will learn how to establish clear roles, engage members effectively, turn meetings into meaningful conversations, leverage members' strengths and connections, and create a culture where volunteers and advisory groups feel valued and empowered.
Communication & Storytelling | Leadership & Decision-Making

Behavior Management for Youth Fun Professionals

• Alexandria Maye-Bloom - Program Coordinator, Auburn Hills Recreation

Do you work as a camp director, youth programmer or with youth in some capacity? Have you ever felt you were out of your depths with an age group of children or find it difficult to convey behavioral expectations to children or staff? Using research from child psychology, best practices from school behavioral management systems and a sprinkle of fun, we will deep dive into how to manage children's behavior in a camp and recreational setting. By adopting a growth mindset and with the proper tools, all youth and staff can thrive.
Community Engagement | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making
 
Beyond ADA -  Insights into how DNR evaluates ADA and Universal Accessibility on grant applications

• Charamy Cleary - Grant Coordinator, Michigan DNR
• Merrie Carlock - Grant Coordinator, Michigan DNR
• Bill Sanders - Landscape Architect / Principal, Sanders & Czapski Associates, PLLC

Knowing ADA is the minimum standard requirement, what does it mean to exceed ADA requirements in project design? This session will discuss how the DNR Grants Division evaluates and scores Universal Accessibility points on the recreation grant applications and in the construction of the grant funded projects.
Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation

Beyond the Chatbot: Hands-On with AI Super Apps

• Samuel Lunt, CPRE - Assistant Recreation Director, Rochester Avon Recreation Authority (RARA)

AI is evolving from a simple chatbot into a powerful digital workspace. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore tools such as Codex, Claude Code, and Google Antigravity while learning how they can assist with projects, files, data, websites, marketing, and everyday parks and recreation work. Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop, follow along, and experiment with their chosen platform. The session will include guided demonstrations, practical exercises, safety considerations, and time to explore. Access to some features may require a paid subscription.
Innovation & Trends | Technology & Innovation
 
Beyond the Day Trip: Launching Overnight Travel Programs

• Kelly LoGiudice, SPMC - Senior Programmer, West Bloomfield Parks & Recreation
• Dawn Medici - Recreation Supervisor, Oxford Township Parks & Recreation
• Jennifer Rizzo, CTRS, CDP - Recreation Specialist, Sterling Heights Parks & Recreation
• Julie Kintner - Travel Coordinator, Grand Traverse Parks & Recreation, Senior Center

Ready to take your travel programming beyond day trips? This session will guide you through the process of developing overnight and extended travel opportunities that inspire adventure and strengthen participant engagement. Discover where to begin your research, how to evaluate destinations, and which travel contractors and partners can help bring your vision to life. We'll share lessons learned, planning timelines, and best practices for creating safe, enjoyable, and financially sustainable travel experiences. Whether you're just getting started or looking to grow your offerings, you'll leave with ideas and resources you can put into action.
Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Beyond the Likes: Connecting Marketing to Bigger Outcomes

• Christy Brunsell - Marketing & Communications Manager, Grand Parks & Recreation

Your post reached 50,000 people – so what? We’ll go beyond vanity metrics and learn how to connect communications performance with the bigger goals your department is working toward. Learn how to build meaningful KPIs, pair marketing measures with results from across your organization including registration, revenue, and more while focusing on contribution rather than credit. From marketing KPIs to program outcomes, we’ll explore how your numbers can work together to demonstrate contribution rather than credit – and tell a much better story about impact.
Communication & Storytelling
 
CapCut Workshop

• Pete Brown - Founder, ASH Interactive

Learn how to create professional, engaging video content using the tools and resources you already have. This hands-on session will cover practical strategies for planning, capturing, and improving video content for parks and recreation marketing. Whether you are new to video or looking to strengthen your current approach, you will leave with simple, budget-friendly techniques you can put to work right away.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Innovation & Trends
 
Diffusing Difficult Moments

• Becca Henson, CTRS - Adaptive Recreation Supervisor, Sterling Heights Parks & Recreation
• Becca Riley, CTRS - Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Canton Parks, Recreation & Community Services
• Kelsy Hoemke, CTRS - Recreation Supervisor -  Adaptive Services and Activities, Rochester Avon Recreation Authority  (RARA)

This session equips parks and recreation professionals with practical tools to respond calmly, safely, and respectfully when emotions and behaviors escalate. Challenging behavior can occur in any participant, parent, patron, or staff member, it is not limited to individuals with diagnosed disabilities. Through real-world scenarios, attendees will explore early warning signs, communication techniques, boundary-setting language, and strategies for involving additional support when needed. Participants will leave with approaches that promote safety, preserve dignity, strengthen staff confidence, and help create positive experiences.
Community Engagement | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Embracing the Gray: Redefining Senior Programming with Limited Resources

• Becka Jenzen, CPRP, CPO - Recreation Coordinator, Clinton Township Recreation
• Stacey McNamara, CPRE, AFO, CPO - Community Center Programmer-Aquatics & Active Older Adult Programs, Lansing Parks & Recreation

The Graying of America is upon us. With more people moving into the senior age group every day, the pressure is on to provide programming for the aging population. Meeting this growing demand can feel like a daunting, if not impossible, task - especially when you are expected to expand your offerings without a corresponding increase in your budget, staff, or physical footprint.
 
This interactive session will help you think outside the box to utilize existing facilities, resources, and events to provide senior recreation, as well as help you brainstorm innovative opportunities for senior engagement. You will leave this session with an actionable blueprint to build a vibrant, resourceful, and deeply connected senior community using exactly what you have right now
Community Engagement | Financial Strategy

Emergency Action Plans for Large Events

• Crystal Smith - Recreation Programmer, West Bloomfield Parks & Recreation Commission

This informative session equips staff and volunteers with the knowledge and confidence needed to support large-scale events safely and effectively. Participants will review emergency action plans, safety protocols, response procedures, station assignments, and event-day expectations to promote seamless operations and strong team coordination.
Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Finding Your True North for Organizational Communication and Culture

• Todd Poquette - Director of Adventure, 906 Adventure Team

A compass is a trusted tool that always points north, providing a steady reference for navigating unfamiliar terrain and challenging conditions. In much the same way, an organization's" true north" serves as a guiding force for effective communication and leadership. This session explores how clear, consistent, and purpose-driven communication builds trust, strengthens culture, and aligns with shared direction.  Participants will be challenged to reflect on how staying grounded in their true north- especially amid external pressures- can promote meaningful dialogue, reinforce organizational values, and enhance connection across teams
Leadership & Decision-Making
 
Foundations of Capital Asset Management and Planning for Parks Departments

• John Chase, CPRE - Director of Parks and Facilities, Grand Traverse County

Managing parks means managing assets - facilities, trails, vehicles, playgrounds, natural areas, and the many amenities community members rely on every day. This introductory session provides parks staff, supervisors, managers, and directors with a clear, practical framework for understanding capital assets and building budget plans that support sustainable operations and long‑term facility stewardship.
 
Attendees will explore the essential elements of capital asset management, including how to identify and inventory assets, assess condition and lifecycle, forecast replacement needs, and prioritize improvements.
Communication & Storytelling | Financial Strategy | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation

From Idea to Itinerary: Building Successful Senior Travel Programs

• Kelly LoGiudice, SPMC - Senior Programmer, West Bloomfield Parks
• Dawn Medici - Recreation Supervisor, Oxford Township Parks & Recreation
• Jennifer Rizzo, CTRS, CDP - Recreation Specialist, Sterling Heights Parks & Recreation
• Julie Kintner - Travel Coordinator, Grand Traverse Parks & Recreation Senior Center Network

Community travel programs are one of the most powerful tools in a parks and recreation professional's toolkit - but getting them off the ground (and keeping them running) takes more than a good itinerary. This session breaks down a practical, step-by-step framework for building and sustaining trip programs that work. From assessing community demand and designing accessible experiences to managing budgets and choosing between contracted vendors or in-house planning, attendees will walk away with real tools they can use immediately. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up an existing program, this session delivers adaptable strategies, planning templates, and problem-solving techniques built for the realities of Senior travel.
Innovation & Trends | Operations & Implementation
 
From Maintenance Crew to Professional Parks Team

• Brad McNab, CPRP, CPSI - Parks and Recreation Foreman, City of Birmingham

Strong park operations begin with more than hard work. They require clear expectations, consistent training, meaningful accountability, and visible opportunities for growth. Drawing from Birmingham’s effort to strengthen its maintenance culture, this interactive session presents a practical framework for turning a maintenance crew into a coordinated professional parks team. Participants will explore written standards, hazard-response priorities, documentation, coaching, certification pathways, and employee ownership. Through field scenarios and a team self-assessment, attendees will identify realistic improvements they can apply in agencies of any size. Even with limited time, staffing, and funding.
Communication & Storytelling | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation

Getting the Most Out of Your Commissions, Committees & Friends Groups

• Linda Walter, CPRP - Retired, mParks Past President
• Traci Sincock, CPRP - Executive Director, Northville Historical Society
• Sunshine Lambert, CPRP - Director, Saline Parks & Recreation

Parks and recreation professionals rely on commissions, advisory committees, and Friends Groups to provide valuable insight, community connections, advocacy, volunteer support, fundraising, and credibility. Yet these groups can sometimes become underutilized—or create frustration when roles, expectations, and communication are unclear.
 
This interactive session will explore practical ways parks and recreation professionals can build productive relationships with these important partners and maximize the value they bring to the organization and community. Participants will learn how to establish clear roles, engage members effectively, turn meetings into meaningful conversations, leverage members' strengths and connections, and create a culture where volunteers and advisory groups feel valued and empowered.Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling
 
Ingham County Trails & Parks Millage: A Community-Focused Approach to Funding Parks and Trails

• Natalie Trotter - Trails & Parks Millage Coordinator, Ingham County Parks

Discover how Ingham County's Trails & Parks Millage is transforming park and trail development through an innovative, countywide funding model. Unlike traditional community millages, this program uses a competitive project proposal process similar to state grant programs, without requiring matching funds or imposing limits on funding requests.
 
This session will explore how the millage creates more equitable funding opportunities, particularly for smaller communities with limited tax bases that might otherwise spend decades saving for significant park and trail improvements. Participants will learn how the program is administered, how communities access funding, and how collaborative investments can accelerate projects and strengthen regional connectivity.
 
Through real-world examples, including the development of a connected trail system linking four communities, attendees will discover how countywide funding and strategic partnerships can expand recreational access, connect communities, and create lasting regional impact.
Community Engagement | Financial Strategy | Operations & Implementation
 
Internships 101: From Landing the Internship to Launching the Program

• Allyson Leach, CPRP - Assistant Recreation Director, Troy Recreation Department
• Nick Wing - Recreation Manager, Midland Parks & Recreation
• Spencer McKellar, CPRP - Deputy Parks and Recreation Director, City of Kentwood Parks & Recreation
• Emily Stevens, CPRP, CPSI - Deputy Director, Lansing Parks & Recreation Department

Internships are all about creating connections. Whether you’re a student looking to stand out in your next internship application or a professional interested in creating an internship program at your agency but unsure where to start, this panel has something for you.
Hear from professionals who oversee established and successful internship programs as they share insights from both sides of the table. Students will learn what employers look for in internship candidates, how to make their applications stand out, and how to build meaningful professional connections. Professionals will gain practical advice and ideas for developing, launching, and maintaining an internship program at their agency.
Come ready to make connections, gain insight, and learn how to make the most of an internship, whether you’re looking to land one or build one.
Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Leading From The Middle

• Brad McNab, CPRP, CPSI - Parks and Recreation Foreman, City of Birmingham

Middle managers turn leadership priorities into daily work while helping supervisors understand what employees need to succeed. This interactive session explores how to give clear direction, communicate concerns upward, coordinate across departments, and manage competing demands. Through practical parks and recreation scenarios, participants will practice employee conversations and use a simple framework: Situation, Impact, Options, Recommendation to support informed decisions. Participants will leave with communication tools and a specific action they can apply to strengthen accountability, support their teams, and lead more effectively from the middle.
Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
The Marketers Are In: Two Communities, Two Approaches

• Christy Brunsell - Marketing & Communications Manager, Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation

Marissa Russo - Marketing & Communications Manager, City of Sterling Heights Ask two marketers the same question and you just might get two different answers – and both could be right. Join two parks and recreation marketers from very different communities as they work through the same real-world scenarios and reveal how context changes their approach. Audience demographics, budgets, department priorities and more can all shift the strategy. Attendees will join the conversation, share how they’d respond, and bring their own marketing scenarios for the marketers to troubleshoot live. You’ll leave better equipped to navigate marketing’s grey areas, evaluate best practices in context, and make strategic decisions that work for your community.
Communication & Storytelling
 
More Than Accessible: Making Parks and Recreation Truly Inclusive

• Becca Henson, CTRS - Adaptive Recreation Supervisor, Sterling Heights Parks & Recreation

Accessibility is the starting point, not the finish line. This practical session explores how parks and recreation professionals can create programs, events, and experiences where people of all ages and abilities feel welcomed, supported, and celebrated. Participants will learn low- and no-cost strategies grounded in universal design, including inclusive communication, sensory considerations, adaptable programming, staff practices, and participant-centered planning.
Community Engagement | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation

Nature and Literacy – Parks as living classrooms

• Ashlie Smith, CIGT, CEE-P - Chief of Outdoor Learning and Environmental Stewardship, Oakland County Parks
• Ashelin Currie, Ph.D. - Founder, We Live Lit!

Discover the natural connection between nature and literacy when parks become living classrooms to engage youth and families in reading and writing. Explore a case study that you can implement in your community: a partnership program between Oakland County Parks, We Love Lit!, Oakland University and MiFamily Network. Be ready for hands-on learning and a possible visit outdoors (weather and time dependent).
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Financial Strategy | Innovation & Trends
 
New Angles on Private/Public Park Funding

• Doug Schultz, PLA - Landscape Architect, ROWE Professional Services
• Nancy Winzer - Recreation Professional, MI Innovative
• Patrick Heraghty - Executive Director, Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan

As funding needs continue to grow, park and recreation professionals have an opportunity to think beyond traditional public funding sources and explore new partnerships that bring community projects to life. From philanthropic investments to local community foundations, private funding can play a powerful role in expanding access to parks, trails, recreation facilities, and programs. This session will explore how park and recreation agencies can engage foundations, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to identify shared priorities, leverage resources, and build support for meaningful investments. Participants will discover how strategic philanthropy and cross-sector collaboration can strengthen community connections, expand recreational opportunities, and create lasting impact.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Financial Strategy | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Outdoor Lighting for Parks: Responsible Solutions for Night Sky Conservation

• Jamie Westfall, CPRP - Park Manager, Headlands International Dark Sky Park
• Rachel Roon, CPRP - Program Coordinator and Site Manager, Emmet County Parks & Recreation

Public parks are increasingly being asked to balance safety, accessibility, nighttime programming, energy efficiency, and community expectations while also protecting the natural nighttime environment. By integrating good fixture design, appropriate illumination level and color, thoughtful placement, and effective controls, park professionals can create nighttime environments that support public use while respecting the night sky and surrounding environment.
Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
P.B.J. & K.I.S.S.E.S.: A Recipe for Clear Communication

• Ethan Engel, CPRP - Recreation Coordinator, Ada Parks & Recreation

Clear communication can feel simple until a message lands differently than intended. Through an interactive demonstration, humor, and examples from parks and recreation, this session explores how assumptions shape the way we give instructions, explain decisions, and respond to questions. Attendees will practice making everyday messages clearer and leave with practical tools they can use with coworkers, participants, and community partners.
Community Engagement |  Communication & Storytelling | Leadership & Decision-Making

Parks for Every Generation; Inviting Older Adults In

• Sims Corbett, CPT - Director of Business Development, Midstates Recreation

By 2030, older adults will represent a significant and growing portion of our communities, yet many parks still offer them few reasons to visit, participate, or stay. This interactive session examines current research on age-friendly parks and third spaces and translates it into practical design and programming strategies. Participants will explore how walking routes, social seating, shade, fitness, games, gardens, nature, gathering spaces, and purposeful activities can support adults 65 and older while benefiting children, teens, families, and caregivers. Attendees will use an age-friendly park framework to evaluate spaces and identify realistic opportunities for multigenerational connection.
Community Engagement | Innovation & Trends

Partnering for Success: The Benefits of Outsourcing P&R Management

• Ellen Schnackel - Director of Programming, The Sports Facilities Companies

Most agencies are comfortable with utilizing contractors for planning purposes. This session will explore contracting out management services which still allows public agencies to maintain ownership of assets while leveraging private sector efficiency, specialized expertise and technology.
Financial Strategy | Innovation & Trends | Operations & Implementation
 
Past Presidents Annual Meeting

• Stu Alderman, CPRP - Executive Director, Neighborhood Club

All Past Presidents of mParks are invited to attend and discuss matters pertaining to the association including current and future goals for the group, strategic planning, and involvement. The group will also discuss collaborations, trends, and how past presidents can assist the board of directors and all association members/committees.
Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Playground Maintenance: Keeping Playgrounds Safe, Clean, and Ready for Play

• Brad McNab, CPRP, CPSI - Parks and Recreation Foreman, City of Birmingham

Effective playground maintenance helps keep play spaces safe, accessible, and ready for use. This session covers hazard recognition, surfacing maintenance, equipment wear, inspections, documentation, and repair or closure decisions. Through photo examples and practical scenarios, participants will discuss how to identify concerns, respond within their authority, and communicate needed follow-up. Attendees will leave with practical approaches for strengthening routine maintenance and supporting consistent care of community playgrounds.
Operations & Implementation
 
Podcast Journeys: How to shine a new spotlight on your programs and departments.

• Chad Stevens, CPRP - Executive Director, DeWitt Area Recreation Authority (DARA)

Looking for a creative way to connect with your community, promote programs, and share the stories behind your parks and recreation department? Podcasting offers a unique platform to engage residents, highlight local initiatives, and amplify your agency’s voice.
 
Join the DeWitt Area Recreation Authority for a behind-the-scenes look at its journey to launching a parks and recreation-focused podcast. From developing the initial concept to recording and publishing episodes, this session will explore the successes, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. Participants will gain practical insight into selecting audio equipment, choosing recording and editing software, navigating podcast hosting platforms, establishing policies and procedures, and developing engaging themes and episode formats.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Financial Strategy | Innovation & Trends
 
The Power Of Collaboration: Turning Partnerships into Results

• Scott Pratt, CPRP - Chief of Community and Employee Engagement, Michigan DNR Parks and Recreation
• Ron Olson, CPRP – Retired, mParks Past President
• Bryan Farmer - Deputy Director, Farmington Hills Department of Special Services
• Maia Turek - Engagement & Innovation Specialist, Michigan DNR Parks and Recreation
• Jason Fleming - Cheif, Michigan DNR Resource Protection and Promotion
• Jason Shamblin - Director, Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission

Start with WHY: The session will open with the purpose of collaboration, why agencies need to build relationships, share resources, break down silos and accomplish more for their communities. The session then moves from WHY to HOW through real Michigan partnerships, exploring shared vision, partner roles, funding, trust, challenges, lessons learned and measurable results.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Financial Strategy | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making

The Rainy Day Folder

• Billy Keppen, CPRP - Assistant Superintendent, Livonia Parks & Recreation

On hard days, it can be easy to forget the moments that make parks and recreation work matter. Consider a “Rainy Day” folder of funny stories, kind words, and reminders of the difference this work makes. In this interactive session, participants will share wins, explore simple ways to recognize colleagues and celebrate progress, and discuss how to keep those moments close when work gets tough. Attendees will leave with fresh ideas for their teams and a template for creating their own Rainy Day collection.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling
 
Recreation Grant Application Workshop

• Jon Mayes - Recreation Grants Manager, Michigan DNR
• Samantha Davis - Grant Coordinator, Michigan DNR
• Riley Millard - Grant Coordinator, Michigan DNR

This workshop is designed to help future grant applicants learn everything  needed to submit applications to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Land and Water Conservation Fund and Recreation Passport grant programs. Best practices and strategies will be discussed.
Financial Strategy | Operations & Implementation

The Responsible Rider: UTV/Cart Safety Training and Compliance

• Brad Brenske - Deputy Director, St. Clair County Parks and Recreation

This course teaches operators how to drive Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs), side-by-sides, and utility/golf carts responsibly in the workplace or field. Attendees will learn to identify hazards, manage loads, and handle different ground conditions and weather. This training helps reduce liability, protects pedestrians and passengers, and aligns with general OSHA best practices.
Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Roundtable: Strengthening Michigan's Trail Systems Through Collaboration

• Natalie Trotter - Trails & Parks Millage Coordinator, Ingham County Parks

Michigan's extensive trail systems provide valuable opportunities for recreation, connectivity, and community engagement. How can park and recreation professionals, trail organizations, and community partners work together to strengthen these networks and expand their impact?
 
This interactive roundtable will bring together professionals and advocates from across the state to share ideas, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities to enhance and promote Michigan's trails. Conversations will focus on identifying community needs, sharing successful strategies, strengthening partnerships, and finding creative ways to increase awareness, accessibility, and use of trail systems. Whether representing a community with an established trail network or one looking to expand recreational opportunities, all perspectives are encouraged.
Community Engagement | Communication & Storytelling | Innovation & Trends | Operations & Implementation
 
Spotlight on Belonging: Celebrating Progress and Shaping the Future

• Zach Zuchowicz, MPH, CDP, CWP - DEI and Community Engagement Coordinator, Oakland County Parks
• Meghan Veiga, CPRP, CTRS, CYSA - Recreation Coordinator, Royal Oak Parks & Recreation
• Evan Sweet, CPRP - Recreation Coordinator, Canton Parks, Recreation and Community Services

Join a dynamic roundtable focused on advancing belonging across parks and recreation. This engaging session offers a space to share your successes, large or small, as well as your goals for building more inclusive programs, policies, and professional practices that foster a true sense of belonging. Connect with peers from across Michigan to exchange ideas, tackle challenges, and explore new strategies together. Discussion topics will include Adaptive and Therapeutic Recreation, Aging and Active Adults, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and reaching underrepresented groups in local parks and recreation settings. Come ready to collaborate, learn, and leave inspired to take the next step forward.
Community Engagement

Swimming Pool Safety/Operation

• Bill Babcock - AFO Instructor, Aquatic Source LLC

Discuss safety measures and general swimming pool operations. Basic Water chemistry and preventative maintance.
Innovation & Trends | Operations & Implementation
 
Take your Staff Training to the Next Level

• Kelley Moss, CPRP - Recreation Program Supervisor, Oakland County Parks

This session will highlight unique training opportunities that can elevate your operations and prepare your team for any situation that may arise. Provide your staff with real-life examples that will give them the confidene they need to succeed under pressure. This includes building out-of-the-box skills and experiences that will help them in their current role, as well as launching them into the greater workforce of their careers.
Communication & Story Telling | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
To Manage Deer, or Not to Manage Deer, That is the Question!

• Emma Campbell - Land Stewardship Coordinator, Meridian Township Parks & Recreation

Deer and humans have lived together for millenia, but we currently struggle to coexist! In this session, Emma Campbell, coordinator of Meridian Township’s Deer Management Program, discusses this issue and how it impacts municipalities, public, and private landowners alike. From neighborhoods, to farm fields to natural areas, white tailed deer have an impact, just as we have an impact on them. A variety of solutions will be proposed to help guide communities on this often controversial and difficult part of land management. Staffing, funding, scenarios, and community attitude, we will discuss it all!
Community Engagement | Financial Strategy | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Where You are to Where You Want to Be

• Linda Walter, CPRP - Retired, mParks Past President
• Derek Smith, CPRE - Director, Northville Parks & Recreation

Success in your professional life isn’t one-size-fits-all - especially in parks and recreation. The pathway that starts with your part-time/seasonal work and leads to that first full time position is just the beginning and it may involve many twists, turns, and unplanned. The "when, where and how" to move through the various stages of your career is rarely a linear progression.  Careers grow through the most unexpected ways. In this session, participants will explore real life examples of unexpected career twists and turns and practical strategies that they can apply as they forge their own way.
Communication & Storytelling | Leadership & Decision-Making
 
Whose Responsibility Is It?  Parks & Recreation and Urban Deer Management

• Bryan Farmer, CPRP - Deputy Director, Farmington Hills Special Services Department

Deer management has increasingly become a responsibility for municipal and county Parks and Recreation agencies. Communities throughout Michigan are experiencing growing deer populations, impacting habitat and increasing deer-vehicle collisions. Residents are also concerned about tick-borne illnesses, landscape damage, and safety. As deer management becomes part of Parks and Recreation Master Plans, agencies need practical strategies to respond. This session introduces the four phases of an Urban Deer Management Plan, developed by the Southeast Michigan Urban Deer Coalition and the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability. Attendees will leave prepared to address urban deer management.
Community Engagement | Innovation & Trends | Leadership & Decision-Making | Operations & Implementation
 
Who Pays for Aging? Building Sustainable Senior Services in Your Community

• Kim Phillips - President, Michigan Association of Senior Centers
• Kailyn Boggess - Operations Manager, Michigan Association of Senior Centers

There is no single funding model for municipally operated senior services - and that may be both the challenge and the opportunity. This interactive session explores how communities combine public funding, program revenue, grants, philanthropy, sponsorships, partnerships, and other resources to support a growing older adult population. Participants will examine different approaches to funding senior services, identify opportunities to diversify their own models, and learn from peers about what is working in communities across Michigan. Come prepared to share an idea, steal an idea, and build connections with colleagues facing many of the same challenges.
Community Engagement | Financial Strategy | Leadership & Decision-Making