In 2022, I found myself in Phoenix, Arizona, standing in a room filled with people I had admired from afar throughout my then 10-year career in the parks and recreation industry. I felt like a new actor at the Oscars or a rookie athlete on the first day of training camp. These people were responsible for the innovative programs, incredible recreation centers and beautiful parks I had dreamed of achieving in my own career. I had so many questions to ask!
I was there thanks to the encouragement of incredible mentors and colleagues, and because I wanted to attend the NRPA Annual Conference to see what all the fuss was about. Shane Mize, a good friend and the director of parks and recreation in Pflugerville, Texas, urged me to apply for the NRPA Young Professional Fellowship, as the chance to attend the conference wouldn’t have been an opportunity I would have had without the award. Stacie Anaya, a trusted mentor and the director of parks and recreation in Lewisville, Texas, invited me to join her for the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) lunch on the first day. There I was, standing with giants in the field. It was surreal.
When you attend your first NRPA Annual Conference, you think you know what to expect. Maybe you’ve attended a state conference or an industry workshop. But then you step into the opening general session, and it hits you: “Is this the coolest experience of my professional life?” The answer is yes. The energy is palpable. The scene is almost overwhelming but in the best possible way. Everywhere you look, people are eager to sit down, have dinner and drinks, and talk parks! What could be better?
Pictured: Jeff Achée, CPRP (left), and Stacie Anaya at the 2022 NRPA Annual Conference.
In 2022, we were still figuring out life post-pandemic, but one thing was certain: parks and recreation had never been more important. The 2022 NRPA Annual Conference sessions were filled with the industry's best, discussing how to make our programs better, our facilities more impactful and our people happier. There was a session for every topic I’d ever considered, with presenters who soon became connections and, in some cases, good friends. My advice for first-time conference attendees is: Don’t miss the opportunity to ask for a business card. When you meet someone whose knowledge or experience you find insightful, remember they would love to share it with you. Starting a conversation can be intimidating, so ask for their card. I promise it won’t end there!
The NRPA Annual Conference, like the upcoming 2024 NRPA Annual Conference in Atlanta this October 8-10, take place in cities with fantastic parks and recreation staff doing incredible things for their community. There will be numerous opportunities to join scheduled tours of new parks or recreation facilities, but you can also visit some on your own or invite one of your new friends to join you. The education sessions and keynote speakers will get you excited and ready to bring what you’ve learned back to your community, and exploring a new place can enhance that excitement. Don’t miss the chance to see what other cities are doing!
Pictured: Jeff Achée, CPRP (right) accepts the NRPA Young Professional Fellowship award at the 2022 NRPA Annual Conference.
Attending the NRPA Annual Conference had a massive impact on me and my career. I now work with Shane as the assistant director in Pflugerville, and I can’t help but think that experiencing the conference with him and others contributed to my earning the chance to work alongside him and his team.
Register for the 2024 NRPA Annual Conference today!
Jeff Achée, CPRP, is the assistant director of parks and recreation for City of Pflugerville, Texas.