What Does Your Conference Look Like?

August 22, 2024, Feature, by NRPA Staff

0924 conference what does your conference look like 410

For an enhanced digital experience, read this story in the ezine.

Whether you’re a passionate young professional eager to network and learn, a seasoned leader looking to mentor and inspire, or part of a specialized community within our vibrant field, discover how the NRPA Annual Conference caters to your specific needs and aspirations.

Young Professionals

This group encompasses members who are students, recent graduates and early-career professionals in the field of parks and recreation. These individuals are typically under the age of 35 and are actively engaged in learning, networking and advancing their careers.

  • Young Professional Network (YPN) Retreat: Join us on Monday, October 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT, for an engaging session focused on networking and getting involved in the YPN.
  • Young Professional Network (YPN) Social: Connect with fellow young professionals on Wednesday, October 9, in the evening. It’s a great opportunity to build relationships and exchange ideas in a relaxed setting.
  • Scholarship and Fellowship Breakfast: Start your day on Tuesday, October 8, from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. EDT, with a breakfast event celebrating scholarship and fellowship recipients. Learn about their achievements and be inspired.
  • Education Session Recommendations: We also encourage you to explore education sessions covering important topics, such as career development, recreation programming and customer service. These sessions are tailored to equip you with practical skills and insights for advancing in your career.

First-Time Attendees

We recommend the following for someone who is participating in the NRPA Annual Conference for the very first time. Attending your first conference marks an important step in your professional development and career growth.

  • Speed Networking: Join us on Tuesday, October 8, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. EDT, for an exciting opportunity to meet fellow attendees and expand your professional network.
  • NRPA Member Area: Visit Booth #1959 to discover how to maximize your NRPA membership benefits, explore our new online store merchandise and get answers to all your NRPA-related inquiries. Don’t forget to pick up your NRPA member gift giveaway!
  • Education Session Recommendation: Attend “Conference 101” for a comprehensive introduction to navigating the conference and effective networking tips.
  • NRPA Network Meetings: Engage with specialized groups, such as Aquatics; Armed Forces Recreation (AFRN); Education; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI); Young Professional (YPN); Leadership Development; Ethnic Minority Society (EMS); and Hispanic Professionals in Parks and Recreation (HPPR), to connect with peers who share your interests and goals.

Directors

Directors play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in their communities by promoting health and wellness, fostering environmental stewardship, and providing inclusive recreational opportunities for all residents.

  • Exhibit Hall: Explore the latest products and services in the field, providing valuable insights and networking opportunities with industry leaders and vendors.
  • Off-Site Institutes: Take advantage of the opportunity to visit and explore facilities in the Atlanta area, gaining practical knowledge and insights firsthand.
  • Education Session Recommendations: Attend sessions focusing on CAPRA accreditation, community engagement strategies and revenue development practices tailored to enhance your professional expertise.
  • NRPA Research Sessions (NRS): Explore research session posters (also available on the virtual platform) throughout the conference, offering valuable insights and innovations in park and recreation research.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation

The Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) professional is someone who works within the military or certain governmental agencies to enhance the quality of life and well-being of service members, their families and other eligible patrons.

  • Armed Forces Recreation Network (AFRN) Preconference Workshop: Join us on Monday, October 7, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. EDT, for a comprehensive half-day training organized by MWR professionals. Topical sessions and workshops led by AFRN leadership will support, educate and connect professionals across all services.
  • AFRN Meeting: Attend the AFRN meeting on Wednesday, October 9, from 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. EDT, to engage in discussions and networking focused on military recreation.
  • Education Session Recommendations: Explore sessions focusing on military recreation, health and wellness initiatives, and hiring strategies to enhance your leadership role.
  • Speed Sessions in the Exhibit Hall: Participate in dynamic speed sessions in the exhibit hall, offering quick insights and innovations from industry experts.

Park Resources

Park resources is for members focused on prioritizing the conservation and management of natural and cultural resources within parks and protected areas.

  • Speed Networking – Park Perspectives: Join us on Monday, October 7, from 3 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. EDT, for a focused session on park perspectives, providing valuable networking opportunities with like-minded professionals.
  • Education Session Recommendations: Explore sessions covering topics such as playgrounds, operations maintenance best practices and conservation strategies to deepen your knowledge and skills.
  • Day of Service: Engage in the Day of Service to contribute and make a positive impact in the local area.
  • 5K Fun Run, Walk or Roll: Join fellow members in a fun and active 5K event, promoting health and camaraderie.