Pictured: Cara McLeod stands at the podium to present her speed session at the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference in Atlanta.
The 2024 NRPA Annual Conference was an enriching experience. It offered a blend of new ideas, professional connections and inspiration that left me energized and full of fresh perspectives for the work we do in parks and recreation. As I reflect on my experience, here are a few of the highlights:
Education Sessions That Left a Mark
The conference’s education sessions covered many topics, but a few truly resonated with me. One that stood out was the keynote speaker, Dan Buettner. His experience and research in working to implement Blue Zones Projects to help communities was exciting. It brought a fresh perspective to parks and how we can make a difference in the health and wellness arena.
In addition to attending, I also had the opportunity to present a speed session this year. The experience was challenging and fun, pushing me to distill key points into a concise, impactful presentation. Sharing my insights while learning from attendees’ questions and perspectives was a powerful reminder of the collaborative spirit within our field.
Networking and Connections
One of the most rewarding aspects of the NRPA Annual Conference is the opportunity to meet other passionate professionals. This year, the networking events were invaluable, allowing me to connect with peers from various parts of the country, share ideas and learn from their experiences.
Exploring the Exhibit Hall: Hands-On with the Latest Innovations
The exhibit hall was a standout, featuring various booths from across the industry. From the latest in green technology for park maintenance to innovative playground equipment that makes spaces more accessible, it was inspiring to see the new tools and approaches available to us. The hands-on experiences offered by many exhibitors made it easy to visualize how these innovations could directly impact our parks, enhance visitor experience and streamline operations.
Looking Forward
The 2024 NRPA Annual Conference was an inspiring experience, reaffirming the importance of what we do in parks and recreation. I returned with a notebook full of ideas, a roster of new connections and a renewed enthusiasm to continue improving our parks and programs for the community. I’m excited to take insights from this year’s conference and apply them to our local efforts, creating more inclusive, sustainable and vibrant park experiences for everyone.
Cara McLeod (she/her) is the senior marketing communications analyst for City of Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department.