NOTE: Schedule subject to change
All sessions award 0.1 CEUs. Sessions that award 1.0 CLE credits are as noted accordingly in the session listing.
- Thursday 25 Jan 2024
- Friday 26 Jan 2024
- Saturday 27 Jan 2024
Thursday 25 Jan 2024
10:00 am - 12:00 pm 01 - AI in the Parks and Recreation Industry
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Neelay Bhatt, CEO & Founder, Next Practice Partners, LLC; Jason Ellisalde, Vice President, Next Practice Partners, LLC; Scott Crowe, Executive Director, Huntley Park District
This session will delve into the ways AI is transforming the industry, exploring specific examples and practical applications. You will gain valuable insights into the potential of AI technologies, ethical considerations, and strategies for successful integration. Through interactive discussions, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to navigate the evolving landscape of the parks and recreation industry. Throughout the presentation, real-world examples and case studies will be shared to illustrate how AI impacts the field. These examples will highlight the transformative power of AI in enhancing user experience, improving operational efficiency, and driving innovation within the parks and recreation industry.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the potential of AI technologies and their specific applications within the Industry.
• Recognize the ethical considerations and challenges associated with AI integration.
• Learn strategies for successful AI adoption and change management, which will allow AI to be leveraged to enhance user experience, optimize operations, and achieve organizational goals within the parks and recreation industry.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 131 - Financing the Fun—An Introduction to Municipal Bonds
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kent Floros, Managing Partner, Chapman and Cutler LLP; Anjali Vij, Managing Partner, Chapman and Cutler LLP; Andrew Kim, Director, PMA Securities, LLC
This session is designed to provide an entry-level education on the basics of all things municipal bonds. This session will provide instruction on, among other things, the following: (1) the different types of borrowing alternatives available to park districts; (2) an overview of the process for issuing municipal bonds and the municipal bond market, including strategies for issuance in a rising interest rate environment; (3) the impacts and limitations of issuing bonds on a tax-exempt basis; and (4) the securities law aspects of municipal bond transactions. This session will be most useful for those who haven’t previously been involved in the issuance of municipal bonds or are looking for a refresher on key topics around municipal bonds, and will discuss topics that are relevant to both administrators and park commissioners.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn the borrowing options available to park districts and the process for issuance.
• Understand the current dynamics impacting the municipal bond market and strategies to minimize cost in a rising interest rate environment.
• Learn the implications of issuing municipal bonds in the context of federal income tax and securities law.
10:00 am - 12:00 pm 203 - Salt Smart Certified Workshop for Park District Winter Maintenance Staff
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Hanna Miller, Watershed Project Manager, The Conservation Foundation; Jennifer Hammer, Director of Watershed Programs, The Conservation Foundation; Jimmy Schmidt, Parks Manager, Streamwood Park District
Salt Smart Certified helps park districts keep visitors safe and lessen the impacts of chlorides, such as rock salt, on our natural and built environments from winter maintenance activities. Park districts play important roles in the quality of life in our communities. Keeping people safe is a priority and can be challenging during and after winter storms. The Salt Smart Certified Workshop and the accompanying Illinois Winter Maintenance Manual were developed to provide winter maintenance staff with the necessary tools to be proactive, provide safe surfaces, and reduce environmental impacts through cost-effective, industry-accepted best practices. The interactive Salt Smart Certified Workshop includes topics such as preseason planning, materials and liquids, key actions to take before, during, and after a storm, and more. The workshop is geared towards park district staff who are responsible for making winter maintenance decisions. Examples will be shared from Illinois park districts that have implemented the recommended best practices successfully. Participating in this workshop and completing the post-workshop evaluation will count towards meeting the requirements for your park district to be Salt Smart Certified.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand why and how chlorides impact the natural and built environment.
• Comprehend the industry-specific terminology and practices that support Salt Smart outcomes in your park district.
• Increase knowledge of resources and support available to park districts.
10:00 am - 12:00 pm 306 - Data Manipulation in Excel
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Marie Herman, Owner, MRH Enterprises LLC
You work with Excel every day. Have you ever wondered if there are features that you haven’t explored that would save you hours of time and loads of frustration? Join us for this session as we delve into time-saving ways to work with data in Excel, including combining, separating, and custom sorting your data, and so much more.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about different ways to combine data in Excel.
• Discover advanced filtering and custom sorting methods to view your data just the way you want.
• Understand how to correct common formatting issues that people experience when working with Excel.
10:00 am - 12:00 pm 420 - Problem Solving Change—Being Proactive Rather Than Reactive During a Transition
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Lydie Gutfield, Director of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services, City of San Bernadino
Navigating transitions and change can be the catalyst for your quitting and your team’s burnout. Figuring out how to focus on the transition while understanding the fear of change can create a sense of unity amongst your team. Supervisors, managers, and department heads are often faced with the challenge of maintaining staff levels and defining new roles due to constant change and transitions. Developing useful communication tools that can be implemented in your teams can prove effective in creating change agents. Be confident as you lead your team through the next big transition!
Learning Objectives:
• Identifying a transition and its various phases to better prepare and ensure a successful outcome.
• Developing the necessary communication skills for becoming a change agent.
• Developing a stronger presence as a leader through transition and change.
10:00 am - 12:00 pm 905 - Bridging the Confidence Gap: How to Succeed at Upfront Communication
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tiffany Olson, Communication Coach, Workshops That Work
In her book titled Playing Big, author Tara Mohr describes the problem of the “confidence gap” this way: “Most women I know feel great pressure...to say what they really want to say
while also...being nice, ever flexible, ever calm.” We've probably all been there—frustrated by a thousand thoughts that prevent us from speaking up confidently when we need to. You can witness this as women hedge their ideas, disclaim their opinions, or engage in upspeak, all in an effort to avoid appearing overbearing or confrontational. That’s not to say there aren’t confident women out there who are excelling when it comes to communication, nor does it imply there aren’t men who struggle with confidence and speaking up. In Bridging the Confidence Gap, Communication Coach Tiffany Olson will not only explore how to bridge the confidence gap between men and women but also provide encouraging steps and takeaways for anyone, regardless of gender, to become a more effective upfront communicator and gain more confidence. Learning Objectives:
• Identify confidence gaps successfully.
• Understand why confidence gaps exist.
• Learn the necessary steps to communicate more confidently.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 113 - Why Do I Have to Go Through Zoning Approval Processes?
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): David Silverman, Equity Partner, Ancel Glink, P.C.; Daniel Bolin, Partner, Ancel Glink, P.C.
It may seem strange that a park district, a unit of local government created by the state, must obtain approval from the municipality where the land is located to develop and utilize its own land for park district purposes. However, that is exactly what must often be done. The extensive list of local governments serving mutual constituencies creates many intersections of authority, some of which can create friction. Notably, a recent incident cost a school district and a municipality millions of dollars in court costs and legal fees, resulting in some really bad follow-up legislation. Such results do not serve the shared constituents of local government. This session will explore the intersection between the park districts’ mission and authority and municipal (and sometimes county) zoning powers. It will explore the zoning process and provide tips on how to navigate this process, from initial engagement through to the public hearing. You will also be invited to share real-world experiences, aiming to create a robust learning environment and keep you better informed about how and why zoning can be used to achieve better overall community results while still preserving park districts’ mission and authority.
Learning Objectives:
• Understanding the municipal (and sometimes county) zoning approval process.
• Navigating the intersection between park districts’ mission and authority and municipal zoning.
• Obtaining a template to successfully engage municipal officials in the zoning process.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 126 - Tips for Avoiding Claims of Harassment/Discrimination in the Workplace
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Elizabeth Wagman, Partner, Tressler LLP; Kathleen Gibbons, Senior Counsel, Tressler LLP
In this session, the legal requirements surrounding harassment/discrimination in the workplace will be described. Beyond reviewing statutes and case law, we will discuss real-life examples to demonstrate best practices. Throughout the presentation, you will be presented with hypothetical scenarios in a work environment, giving you the opportunity to discuss how you would address the issue amongst yourselves and with us.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain an in-depth understanding of the legal implications of harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
• Learn about the best practices based on real-world examples.
• Interact with a panel of seasoned employment attorneys.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 140 - From Concrete to Green: How a Government Partnership is Turning a Commercial Site into an Events Park
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Nathan Troia, Director of Planning and Natural Resources, Glen Ellyn Park District; Mark Franz, Village Manager, Village of Glen Ellyn; Ernest Wong, Principal, Site Design Group
In this session, you will learn about the successful collaboration between the Glen Ellyn Park District and the Village of Glen Ellyn to turn a former bank site into a vibrant public park. You will hear from the key stakeholders involved in the project, including the Park District Director of Planning, the Village Manager, and the design team. You will discover the benefits of the park for the community, such as the provision of a civic gathering space, increased event opportunities, and scope for economic development. Don't miss this inspiring case study of how a government partnership can create positive change for the environment and the people.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the key steps and challenges involved in a government partnership to redevelop a commercial site into a park.
• Evaluate the RFP, public engagement, and design process involved in the development of the park.
• Assess the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the park on the community and the city.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 20 - Design, Implement, and Fund a Sustainable Financial Assistance Program
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Crystal Ballroom B, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Ed Heiser, Executive Director, Buehler YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Lindsay Bennett, Director of Philanthropic Impact, YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago awards over $1,000,000 annually in financial assistance for youth, adults, and families to participate at one of their 14 membership centers or 5 YMCA camps. It funds the financial assistance program through contributions from private donors, foundations, and community partners. This session will take you step-by-step through the processes and procedures involved in developing, identifying, fundraising, and awarding financial assistance. Learn how to maximize the impact of a robust financial assistance program on your community while ensuring financial sustainability for your agency.
Learning Objectives:
• Develop procedures, criteria, and qualifiers to design a financial assistance program.
• Learn key fundraising strategies and tactics to support the funding of the financial assistance program.
• Build community support and awareness for the program.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 208 - Planning, Design, Construction, and Management for a Sustainable Synthetic Turf Sports Complex
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Crystal Ballroom C, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Lacey Lawrence, Senior Associate, Hitchcock Design Group; Chuck Meyers, Superintendent of Parks and Forestry, City of Lake Forest; John Fehlberg, Civil Engineer, Primera Engineers
Synthetic turf fields provide opportunities for increased programming, scheduling, and revenue while decreasing maintenance demands. This session will provide an overview of best practices to be followed when planning for synthetic turf fields in your community, building community support, securing funding, designing and implementing, managing logistics for operations, and obtaining opportunities for incorporating sustainable practices into your project.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about maintenance practices that will protect the quality of playing surfaces and increase longevity.
• Learn how to navigate the processes involved, overcome obstacles, and build support.
• Learn how to rally the community to support decisions to incorporate synthetic turf fields in park systems.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 300 - "You're Fired!" — What to do Before Uttering These Words
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Crystal Ballroom A, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Yordana Wysocki, Partner, Hervas, Condon & Bersani, P.C.; David Moore, Partner, Laner Muchin
This talk focuses on how to handle employee misconduct. We'll cover grievances and complaints, investigations, performance and PIP, documentation, separation, and the mitigation of litigation risks.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn what to do when misconduct is brought to your attention.
• Understand how to document the investigation and findings, as well as plan for the future.
• Learn about the best practices for safeguarding both employees' and employers' rights.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 316 - Building Security Technology
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Regency Ballroom D, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jeff Jinkins, Manager of Information Services, Rockford Park District; Matt Slocum, IT and Systems Manager, Dundee Park District
This session will provide insight into both current and new technologies in the area of building security that organizations can deploy to improve the safety of their employees, patrons, buildings, venues, and parks. We will talk about building alarm systems, access control systems, and associated applications, as well as video surveillance and monitoring. This session will also offer ideas on newer solutions, including intelligent video monitoring, flock and trail cameras, and mass notification systems, and explore how all these pieces can fit together to create a unified solution.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the major components of a comprehensive building security solution.
• Understand the newer technology available to enhance existing security solutions.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 403 - Early Childhood, Nature, and the Park District
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Katie Wallace, Recreation Supervisor of Outdoor Education, Downers Grove Park District
In the early stages of life, children develop both fine and gross motor skills that stay with them for the rest of their lives. Join me in a discussion about how these skills can be developed and refined in an outdoor setting. We will get up and get moving to experience some of the best ways to promote skill development through nature play. We will also discuss what it takes to bring outdoor early childhood programs to your park district and how Lyman Woods of the Downers Grove Park District has been successful in maintaining an early childhood audience.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify important early childhood skills.
• Learn about the key components of outdoor education.
• Understand the where and when of early childhood outdoor education.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 600 - #banthebinder—Taking Your Operations into the Cloud
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom C, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kirsten Barnes, Director, HydroApps
Recreation professionals are always looking for solutions to improve efficiency and get back needed time. Utilizing digital solutions to document daily tasks and inspections, report maintenance issues, manage certifications, record training and class observations, or even keep track of things like first aid supplies and staff uniforms are all innovative solutions. Understand what "going digital" looks like, how to evaluate your options, and how you can benefit from a return on your investment!
Learning Objectives:
• Understand how digital documentation can improve risk management and compliance with local and industry standards.
• Assess opportunities and identify the relevant solutions for digitizing operations.
• Improve competency in evaluating software tools for capabilities needed to manage risk and enhance safety.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 908 - Designing Marketing Strategies for Young Kids and "Younger" Seniors
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kelsi Stephenson, Marketing Manager, Wheeling Park District; Juan Acevedo, Supt. of Marketing and Communications, Wheeling Park District; Kelly Holan, Marketing Manager, Wheeling Park District
While advertising to your community’s youngest users and active adult population is not something new, park and recreation agencies often struggle to reach these two target groups. Discover how to make a lasting impact on them through innovative marketing approaches, including creative storytelling, immersive experiences, and moments-based media. It is essential that park and recreation agencies understand how to create tailored marketing messages, including the type of language, images, and channels preferred by these segments of the community. In this session, you will learn how a marketing team used a service marketing mix to create unique materials and discuss the lessons learned from these experiences.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities involved in marketing to children and active adults.
• Discover how to use creative storytelling, immersive experiences, and moments-based media to capture the attention of both children and adults.
• Learn marketing techniques to increase leads and encourage long-term loyalty and guest satisfaction.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 02 - Responsible Leadership—Choosing How We Show Up for Others
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kristin Strunk, People and Culture Leader, Regent Leadership Group
Leadership isn't a position of authority. It isn't demonstrated in your job title. It isn't something you learn overnight. There are four principles for responsible leadership, each of which needs to be practiced and demonstrated regularly to enhance team engagement, develop others through effective delegation and coaching, and create an environment that builds the next generation of leaders.
Leadership impacts so much more than staff retention. Responsible leadership can reduce burnout, ease performance conversations, simplify conflict resolution, and build confidence. Research published in the Harvard Business Review shows that if you are a good leader, your impact on both your team and your team's direct reports has positive ramifications throughout the organization.
Regardless of whether you have been a leader for decades, you are just starting your journey, or you want to become a leader, we will give you the opportunity to learn, reflect, and develop your action plan.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the four principles of responsible leadership.
• Determine where you demonstrate these principles and understand their impact on others (not just your team).
• Create an action plan for enhancing your leadership style or determine how you want to become a leader.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 1000 - Equitable Productive Conflict Resolution for People Managers
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Linda Henderson-Smith, Owner and Principal, ATC Consulting LLC; Jonelle Bailey, Executive Director, Sycamore Park District
Productive conflict resolution is one of the key skills that people managers need in order to supervise teams equitably. Fear of conflict is among the five major dysfunctions observed in teams. If we want our teams to be functional, we have to learn how to face and resolve conflict in productive rather than destructive ways. The training in this session will explore definitions of relevant concepts, as well as discuss steps that can be taken and provide practical skills to resolve conflict in productive ways to ensure our teams are safe places for staff to thrive and feel a sense of belonging.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand productive conflict and how it is related to equitable leadership.
• Recognize why productive conflict resolution is required for teams to be functional.
• Gain insight into the necessary steps for resolving conflict productively.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 1109 - Unleashing Synergy—A Case Study in the Transformation of the Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Anamari Dorgan, Director of Community Engagement, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County; Stephanie Touzalin, Wildlife Education Supervisor, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County; Danielle Appello, Associate Principal, Wight & Company
Owned by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, the Willowbrook Wildlife Center provides care, rehabilitation, and medical treatment to native wildlife, supports the District’s threatened and endangered species captive-rearing program, and is an environmental education resource for the public. To address the need to update the 42-year-old facility, the District has committed to the design and construction of a clinic and visitor center, outdoor animal enclosures, wildlife gardens, interpretive trails, and immersive experiences in the surrounding forest preserve. This session will highlight the collaborative process between the District and Wight & Company to design and build a facility to enhance Willowbrook as a public resource, a project that is a true transformation in our approach to best practices in animal care and public communication. The improvements will underscore the critical message that healthy ecosystems are dependent on healthy wildlife populations and responsible human actions. This session will delve into the project’s journey, including the design–build methodology and the integrated approach from inception to construction that brought together architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain insight into the collaborative nature of design–build projects
• Understand how interdisciplinary teams work together throughout the project life cycle.
• Learn about this project’s unique challenges and how they were overcome through creative problem-solving and innovative solutions.
• Gain insight into the best practices and lessons learned, including the successes, failures, and areas for improvement.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 302 - Helpful Tips for Understanding and Prioritizing OSHA Standards in Parks and Recreation
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Bill Hooker, Training Program Supervisor/Authorized OSHA Outreach Trainer, PDRMA
Proactive employers look at OSHA compliance as a first step towards the implementation of safety systems and a culture of continuous improvement for the safety of all staff. Understanding and implementing OSHA standards can be confusing at times and you may find it difficult to prioritize the numerous standards that apply to your organization. In this program, we will highlight various OSHA-related topics and discuss common industry applications of these topics. Through the use of case studies, pictures, hypothetical scenarios, checklists, and group exercises, you will learn how to identify the standards applicable to your agency, discuss factors for prioritizing topics, and create an implementation plan for an OSHA topic at your agency.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand how various OSHA topics apply to your industry.
• Identify and prioritize OSHA topics that apply to your agency.
• Create a goal for implementing an OSHA topic.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 509 - Having Hard Conversations: Rely on Relationships, Be Uncomfortable, and Do It Anyway
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Susan Mrazek, PhD, I/ECMH-C, Independent Contractor
This training discusses the advantages and challenges of having difficult conversations. The critical adults in children’s lives, such as administrators, educators, and parents, need to be able to confidently address challenging topics together. In this session, you will learn about the different components of a challenging conversation and the skills that need to be strengthened before entering such a conversation. You will gain practice in outlining your points, using an assertive voice, setting a goal, validating others, and learning to question personal thoughts and assumptions. You will walk away with tools that can be used when having a challenging conversation, as well as ways to handle your own emotions when involved in talks that are uncomfortable but necessary.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify and understand the different skills needed when embarking on challenging conversations.
• Practice planning a difficult conversation and having one within a role-play scenario.
• Understand and practice conflict prevention skills, such as engaged listening, active constructive responding, and assertive voice.
12:30 pm - 2:30 pm 602 - How to Implement F&B that Drives Cost Recovery
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mike Holtzman, President, Founder, CEO, Profitable Food Facilities
Food and beverage (F&B) programs drive cost recovery in the parks and recreation industry. During this session, you will learn how to build a plan for success. We will answer questions such as how we can reduce the number of third-party food vendors, the menu items that could be added to our operation, and how quickly our F&B investment will achieve an ROI. This course also explores how to develop, implement, and maintain an F&B strategic plan that increases cost recovery, raises community engagement, and enhances park user experience.
Learning Objectives:
• Discover areas of improvement or development for current F&B operations.
• Learn how to develop, implement, and maintain an exceptional F&B strategic plan.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 1007 - Veteran Inclusive Programming—Yes, Women Served Too!
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Christine Lopez, Veteran Services Coordinator, Mundelein Park District; Donna Allen Rielage, Founder and CEO, AllenForce
Often, our veteran community is overlooked. Being intentional about meeting the needs of all park participants, including our veterans, creates a more inclusive community. This session will discuss ways to create safer and braver spaces for our veterans, especially women veterans, by reinventing our facilities for increased participation in programs and services. We will discuss tips to support your staff and agency's development as you create a veteran-friendly, trauma-responsive space that is engaging and inclusive.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand why women of the military often do not self-identify and how to better serve them.
• Identify at least three potential challenges facing military members and their families.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 1100 - Utilizing GIS for Planning, Management, and Analysis of Prescription Burns
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): John Peters, Restoration Ecology Manager, McHenry County Conservation District
Utilizing Esri ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro software and Field Map Applications, the McHenry County Conservation District (MCCD) has developed a robust data collection and management database for its prescription burn program. John Peters, Restoration Ecology Manager, will discuss the process and data collection used by the MCCD for prescription burn tracking and decision-making, highlighting the software’s abilities to display and showcase the gathered data through dashboards and mapping capabilities. Learning Objectives:
• Learn about utilizing Esri ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro software and Field Map Applications.
• Gain insight into the process and data collection MCCD employs for prescription burn tracking and decision-making, highlighting the abilities provided by the software.
• Learn how to disseminate information effectively through dashboards and mapping capabilities.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 112 - Real Estate 101
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Gregory Jones, Partner, Ancel Glink, P.C.
Join us for a primer on considerations related to your park district's ownership, acquisition, and sale of land. This session will provide an overview of how to conduct due diligence the right way, procedures to use when acquiring and selling land, and the best practices for managing park district properties. We'll provide a roadmap for navigating the property acquisition and disposition processes so that your district can focus on what's really important—strategic real estate decisions that drive your district's mission.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the importance of pre-acquisition due diligence.
• Learn about the procedures to follow when buying and selling land.
• Understand various strategies to manage property acquisition and stewardship more effectively.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 123 - Critical Thinking About Accessibility and Inclusion
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom, Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): John McGovern, Principal-in-Charge (Accessibility), The WT Group, LLC Accessibility Practice
Illinois parks and recreation agencies have been implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for 32 years. The SRA model and the existence of the special recreation levy are true distinguishing factors when looking at other states, and Illinois agencies are recognized nationally as leaders in ADA compliance. That said, the world has changed. Illinois demographics, together with medical and healthcare technology, have changed. In addition, we have decades of enforcement decisions regarding the way in which the ADA applies to recreation programs and assets in public parks. This session will review ADA enforcement methods and trends, the accessible design standards, and key US DOJ Title II requirements. We will then test our knowledge by discussing real-life scenarios drawn from parks and recreation agencies across Illinois, as well as in other states. These will include applying anti-seizure medication and managing e-bikes under the ADA, as well as determining whether medical marijuana is a reasonable modification, when and where construction tolerance exists, whether providing one-to-one staff support is required or not, whether engineered wood fiber is an accessible playground surface, and more.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn the five ways in which the ADA can be enforced in Illinois and apply them to home agency operations.
• Discuss and resolve recreation inclusion issues in a wide range of programs for both children and adults.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 127 - 2024 Employment Law Update
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Darcy Proctor, Partner, Tressler LLP; Drew O'Donnell, Associate, Tressler LLP
This session will cover recent developments in employment law that impact Illinois employers. Moreover, the best practices for avoiding liability and employment-related lawsuits will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify common workplace issues that lead to employment litigation and potential employer liability.
• Minimize liability exposure and mitigate risk associated with employment decisions and practices.
• Gain the opportunity to interact with a panel of seasoned employment attorneys.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 17 - Cultivating a Campfire Culture
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Crystal Ballroom B, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Elizabeth Kessler, Executive Director/Owner & President, McHenry County Conservation District/Artemis Strategic Consulting
By their very nature, campfires create a sense of community by bringing people together in a safe and equitable space to share stories, songs, and ideas. The concept of creating a campfire culture within your organization is about designing opportunities and strategies to foster trust, mutual respect, and understanding in order to generate a supportive work environment. High-performing teams practice effective communication, promote a sense of belonging, and encourage camaraderie. These essential team traits create a welcoming culture that enhances productivity, efficiency, analytical thinking, creativity, and decision-making abilities.
Learning Objectives:
• Explore a variety of techniques and ideas to create a welcoming culture and cohesive team within your organization.
• Navigate opportunities and challenges created by remote/hybrid work environments, organizational silos, workload capacity, shifting demographics, and burnout.
• Understand the importance of assessment tools to effectively evaluate organizational culture, as well as the essential steps to chart and navigate a strategic path forward to achieve positive and impactful change.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 209 - Planning for Capital Project Grants
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Steve Konters, Senior Principal, Hitchcock Design Group; Bridget Deatrick, Senior Associate, Hitchcock Design Group; Chris Leiner, Executive Director, Northbrook Park District; Joan Scovic, Director of Marketing & Communications, Northbrook Park District
Set your agency and community up for success in being "grant ready" and aligned with your timeline, budgets, and resources. This session will provide an overview of funding opportunities, pre-planning activities, the keys to a competitive application, and being prepared for implementation.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the available funding opportunities and which projects they are best suited to.
• Learn how to prepare for grants and get support from your board and community.
• Gain insight into the timelines for local/national grants and how to prepare for these cycles.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 23 - Building a Culture of Innovation and Inclusion
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Neelay Bhatt, Founder & CEO, Next Practice Partners LLC; Jason Ellisalde, Vice President, Next Practice Partners LLC
The world has changed and we are now in a new normal in the post-pandemic era. As Illinois continues to grow and the community continues to evolve, it is important to recognize that the best practices of the past may no longer be effective for achieving success in the future. In this session, we will discuss trends that impact you personally, as well as the profession as a whole, including programs, technology, community input, and climate change, exploring how to address them in an inclusive and financially sustainable manner.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand new trends impacting the parks and recreation field and your agency.
• Identify agencies and organizations that have implemented some of these new ideas successfully.
• Help to build and sustain a culture that embraces change and thrives in it.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 305 - Controlling the Chaos of Your Outlook Inbox
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Crystal Ballroom C, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Marie Herman, Owner, MRH Enterprises LLC
In this session, you will discover innovative ways to manage large volumes of email in Outlook and to use built-in functionalities to get more done faster. We’ll explore some of the automation options to process emails more effectively, saving you several hours, and will also explore some of the ways you can customize Outlook to work better for you.
Learning Objectives:
• Discover the many ways to process large volumes of mail, including quick steps, rules, and other functions.
• Fine-tune your searches with advanced searching options and specialized folders.
• Customize your views so that Outlook will work better for you.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 308 - Attackers Versus Defenders—How They React In Real Time
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mishaal Khan, Cybersecurity Leader, Mindsight; Matt Cox, Director of Internal Systems and Security, Mindsight
Watch this exciting role-play as two highly motivated cybersecurity experts battle it out with their egos at stake, with one trying to launch attacks at every layer of security and the other finding creative ways to block them. You will leave this event knowing the various attack methods that can be used and the defenses that you can implement to stop them. More importantly, you will learn a structured approach to prioritizing and managing risk. Conversations will include clever attacks and defensive methods for phishing, malware, physical and phone-based social engineering, zero-day attacks, deleting logs, data exfiltration, and MFA bypass, to name a few. The methods may be technical but the conversations will be kept at a high level to encourage engagement from everyone involved.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the various attack methods that cybercriminals use.
• Learn the defenses that can be implemented to stop attacks.
• Ask questions of the experts.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 409 - Cures for the Common Survey
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Crystal Ballroom A, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Bobbi Nance, President, Recreation Results
We all know that customer feedback is essential in understanding the needs of our communities but our surveys are often an afterthought. Without completely reinventing the wheel, learn how you can strategically tweak the what, when, and how of your requests for customer feedback to produce better, more actionable data. Watch as we showcase examples of underutilized survey software features that you can easily implement to increase your response rates, make the experience less repetitive, and even help promote better customer service and marketing efforts. Get inspired and learn how, with a little bit of effort on the front end, you can build better surveys that really get results.
Learning Objectives:
• Tweak your survey design to improve the survey taker's experience while still getting the answers you need.
• Evaluate answers to common questions, such as satisfaction ratings, at a deeper level to provide more insight and direction.
• Identify opportunities to combine survey results and registration/sales data to reveal an entirely new source of results to work with, as well as more information to act upon.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 412 - Bridging The Gap Between Marketing and Recreation—Episode 3
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mike Terson, Superintendent of Communications and Marketing, Buffalo Grove Park District; Joe Zimmermann, Director of Recreation and Facilities, Buffalo Grove Park District
You may remember this session from years past. The first two times we conducted this session, it featured a panel of marketing professionals, some of whom had recreation experience as well. This time, however, we are going to dive deeper into the waters of technology and digital marketing, data collection and usage, and understanding who plays what role in a team. In this session, Mike Terson, superintendent of communications and marketing, and Joe Zimmermann, director of recreation and facilities, both hailing from the Buffalo Grove Park District, will share cutting-edge ideas and best practices. They will also lead a discussion about the best ways to enhance relationships and maximize productivity within your two most interdependent departments.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the various roles in the marketing process.
• Learn how to utilize technology to optimize results.
• Understand how to obtain and collect useful data.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 500 - What is the ACC?
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Lauren Raspanti, Special Events Manager and Marketing Relations, Lemont Park District; Victoria Reynolds, Associate Professor PhD CCC-SLP, Lewis University; Louise Egofske, Executive Director, Lemont Park District; Matthew Corso, Executive Director, SEASPAR; Bethany Pastrana, Inclusion Manager, SEASPAR
The concept of complex communication needs (CCN) refers to the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) modalities to supplement or replace speech as the primary method of communication. The best way to support playground inclusion for children with CCN is to install AAC systems in public spaces. This will facilitate communication and play interactions, as well as increase awareness and visibility of AAC among the general public. In this session, we will describe the development of our collaboration and our special project in prospectively designing play installations for communication accessibility, as well as discuss how to use this in your district or municipality.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand AAC and its importance to individuals with CCN.
• Explore the concept of accessibility in terms of communication, and understand how communication accessibility can be improved in parks and recreation.
• Discuss how these concepts could be integrated into various local playgrounds and recreational facilities.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 601 - Connecting with Your Gen Z Team
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom D, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kirsten Barnes, Director, HydroApps
In a perfect world, we would have more qualified applicants than openings, our team would commit to work the entire summer, and we would almost never have to cover a shift from a guard stand! In many places, a shortage of qualified guards, the unique work ethic and expectations of Gen Z in the workplace, and the constraints of “it’s always been done this way” have challenged how Aquatics professionals recruit, train, and manage their guards. Join me as we discuss how to successfully navigate this new workforce.
Learning Objectives:
• Differentiate Gen Z and understand the key influences/attributes of this generation and how to manage Gen Z accountability in the workplace.
• Identify opportunities to make changes to standing policies or guidelines that can appeal to Gen Z while maintaining a focus on safety.
• Identify at least three practical things you can immediately implement to improve performance and team member experience.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 608 - Committing to Zero—Lessons Learned from Net-Zero Energy Buildings
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jake Vest, Trades Manager, Northbrook Park District; Chris Lindgren, Superintendent of Parks and Planning, Park District of Oak Park
From conception and design through verification to sustainable net-zero, Chris Lindgren (Superintendent of Parks and Planning at the Park District of Oak Park) and Jake Vest (Trades Manager at the Northbrook Park District) will share the lessons learned from successfully verified and emerging net-zero buildings. With environmental stewardship and sustainability embedded in their missions, both of these districts have committed to building and retrofitting net-zero facilities. This commitment resulted in the establishment of two of the three currently verified net-zero buildings in the state. Chris and Jake will walk through case studies of the Carrol Center (verified net-zero), Techny Prairie Activity Center (verified-net zero), and Community Recreation Center (emerging net-zero) and provide takeaways on how to successfully navigate the construction, operation, and verification processes for net-zero facilities.
Learning Objectives:
• Gaining board and community buy-in for designing and constructing a net-zero facility.
• Commissioning and operating a net-zero facility.
• Verifying a net-zero facility.
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm 911 - 10 Lessons About Marketing I Learned from It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Regency Ballroom C, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Amy Seklecki, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Arlington Heights Park District
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia is one of the longest-reigning shows on TV. With over 150 episodes, this beloved show is filled with plenty of adventure, chaos, and believe it or not, more marketing lessons than I can count. Tune into this session and learn valuable lessons from your favorite Philly cast!
Learning Objectives:
• Identify moments of inspiration in everyday scenarios.
• Gain ideas inspired by fictional characters who feel like your real friends.
• Discover the importance of marketing lessons and where else you can find them.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 507 - Transform Your Trainings
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Michelle Smith, Business Coach & Consultant, Keynote Speaker & Trainer, Z&B Consulting, Inc
Michelle Smith of Z&B Consulting, Inc. comes into organizations to provide interactive training for staff and volunteers. She’s spent decades helping organizations get better results for those they serve and knows firsthand how important it is to make the most of the time you have when staff are gathered. During this session, Michelle will share tips and resources for keeping staff engaged and helping them learn valuable lessons through hands-on, interactive experiences. You’ll leave with ideas and tools that can immediately be put into action and transform your training sessions. Fun, exciting training results in staff retaining and putting into action more of what they’ve learned, as well as the clients you serve having better experiences. After years of serving her community while pushing herself and her family aside, Michelle was burned out. She quickly learned the importance of bringing fun into everyday tasks and working smarter, not harder. It’s now her mission to help others who love to serve do the same. Michelle is the Rotary District 6450 Membership Engagement Chair, Past President of the Romeoville Rotary and Romeoville HS Choir Boosters, on the executive board of the Romeoville Chamber, and on the parish council at her church.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn new ways to engage staff at seasonal meetings and trainings.
• Learn about sample activities to bring back to your team.
• Gain insight into leading effective staff training.
Friday 26 Jan 2024
8:30 am - 9:30 am 1001 - Allyship—From Support to Action
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Linda Henderson-Smith, Owner and Principal, ATC Consulting LLC
The term “ally” has been used to describe a person who supports individuals from diverse cultures and their fight for justice. However, it is a verb, which means it is an action. This session will provide a better understanding of what allyship really is, strategies for how to ally effectively, and information on how we can best ally with those we work with and serve.
Learning Objectives:
• Define the concept of allyship.
• Learn to describe the actions involved in allyship.
• Understand why support alone is not enough.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 104 - Board Member to Board Leader—Part I
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Dannielle Wilson, Manager, BerryDunn
At the heart of every park board and foundation board is a well-intentioned citizen who wants to give back to their community. Whether a new eager-beaver or a seasoned veteran, board members share the same desire to do a fantastic job. This session will help individual board members ensure that they are being impactful in a positive way. If you’re looking for a session that goes beyond the nuts and bolts and digs into real, meaningful, and applicable board topics, then look no further! As a former park board secretary and a current park board commissioner, practical experience on both sides of the table will be shared with an engaging, insightful, and lighthearted approach. This is just what you need to acquire new skills and energize yourself for a successful board tenure!
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the tactics you would like to employ in your boardsmanship.
• Understand your peers’ number one leadership strategy.
• Gain renewed energy and enthusiasm in your leadership role.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 107 - Girl Power—Get Your Questions Answered!
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Carrie Fullerton, Executive Director, Arlington Heights Park District; Maryfran Leno, Executive Director, Itasca Park District; Rita Fletcher, Executive Director, Bartlett Park District
Got questions? Everyone has questions when they are preparing to move their career forward. The professionals on this panel are ready to help YOU! What is the best way to present yourself in an interview? What skills are you missing that would allow you to secure your next position? How should you negotiate a higher salary or better benefits? How can you build your confidence? What are your questions—bring them to this session and get ready to move yourself upward and/or forward!
Learning Objectives:
• Gain perspective from various professionals on questions asked by yourselves and/or your peers on career advancement.
• Gain perspective from various professionals on questions asked by yourselves and/or your peers on preparing for an interview.
• Gain perspective from various professionals on questions asked by yourselves and/or your peers on building confidence.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 110 - Legal/Legislative—Part I
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jason Anselment, General Counsel, Illinois Association of Park Districts; Derke Price, Equity Partner, Ancel Glink
In this session, legal experts will discuss new laws and recent court decisions that affect park districts, conservation districts, forest preserves, recreation, and special recreation agencies. Changes to the Park District Code and other new legal requirements affecting district operations and facilities, labor and employment, and financial procedures will be discussed along with other statutory changes that may impact your agency. Recent tort liability cases that provide guideposts in your agency's day-to-day operations will also be covered. You will also receive information about the latest developments from the state capitol. Stay current on a wide variety of changes in the law and learn how these changes will affect the operation of your agency.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify recent legal changes that impact day-to-day operations.
• Understand how these legal changes and other developments will affect your agency's operations.
• Determine how to adapt to the requirements of new laws while following the best practices.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 1108 - Green from the Outside In
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Amanda Grant, Data Manager, Forest Preserves of Cook County; Raquel Garcia-Alvarez, Policy & Sustainability Manager, Forest Preserves of Cook County
For over a century, the Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) has been a leader in land restoration and conservation for the enjoyment of our constituents. But what does our organization look like behind the green forests, savannahs, marshes, and prairies? Join us on this sustainability journey as the FPCC improves its inner workings to match its green exterior and put in the work on the inside to make it truly green from the inside out. Learn from its challenges and successes, and see how the FPCC embarked on an ambitious plan to make its operations, fleet, and facilities as green as possible.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to examine the dichotomy between your mission and internal structures and processes.
• Understand how to partner strategically with external organizations to multiply your success.
• Learn how to motivate staff to participate and incorporate green daily habits in their work and daily life.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 137 - Thinking About A Bond Referendum? What to Do and Where to Start
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kent Floros, Managing Partner, Chapman and Cutler LLP; Anjali Vij, Managing Partner, Chapman and Cutler LLP; Aaron Gold, Vice President, Speer Financial, Inc.; Leon Younger, President, PROS Consulting, Inc
Going to voters to ask for approval to construct capital improvements and issue bonds can be a daunting task. This session will walk you through the planning process of including a question on the ballot and discuss how you can engage with your constituents regarding important issues, such as tax impact. The session will also describe pre-referendum planning, such as information campaigns.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn the key steps and suitable timing for placing a bond referendum on the ballot.
• Learn the legal requirements related to referenda questions and placing a question on the ballot.
• Identify the financial information that is necessary to engage and inform the community regarding a referendum.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 14 - No One Cares About Your Data
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Bobbi Nance, President, Recreation Results
Is your group struggling to gain significant benefits despite having the right data processes in place? Maybe you can't figure out what to do with the endless influx of survey results, how to act upon the data sitting in your registration software, or how to make your performance measures more than just an annoying extra task when creating your annual budget. Maybe you see the value in your data, but can't get your staff on board or get your elected officials to care. Whatever the reason, learn how to evaluate and tweak the data you collect, measure, and share so that you can decrease the chances that it collects dust sitting on shelves and in your software and instead becomes part of your group's day-to-day. Using real-life examples, you will see how small shifts in what you measure and how you present it can make a world of difference in how your staff, leaders, and community engage with what your data has to say.
Learning Objectives:
• List three questions that can be used to evaluate the quality of your current data efforts, including survey questions, performance measures, and even data presentation.
• Lead a discussion with your team to identify more engaging and useful questions and data points to get them to care more about your data efforts.
• Share your results and insights in a way that improves audience engagement, understanding, and retention.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 210 - Kids Around the World—Building a Generation of Hope
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Greg A. Weitzel, Senior Director of Mission Advancement, Kids Around the World; Tim Clauson, Director of Playgrounds, Kids Around the World; Andrew Martin, Food Program Director, Kids Around the World; Jenny Knitter, Director of Parks, Planning & Development, Woodridge Park District; David Mogle, Retired Professional
The story and mission of Kids Around the World (KATW) is inspiring. In 1994, a playground was gifted by Rockford, Illinois to Brovary, Ukraine. After a grateful response from Ukrainian officials, the idea of replicating this action where modern safe playgrounds were lacking was born. KATW partners and volunteers have now built more than 1,100 playgrounds at parks, schools, and orphanages in over 60 countries impacted by poverty, war, or natural or man-made disasters. Throughout KATW’s quest to provide the gift of play, they often encounter hungry children. In response, the OneMeal program was created. Volunteer food packing events are held in the U.S., and more than 60 million nutritious meals have been shipped to kids in need of food security. Children also need hope, so KidStory was developed in order to foster and enhance their spiritual development. This session will discuss and explore the history of KATW, the mutual benefits and efficiencies derived from partnering, including how used playgrounds are donated and restored, and how your agency can be involved in this rewarding global effort.
Learning Objectives:
• Pursue a socially responsible way to recycle old playground equipment that can be used to provide play equity, as well as health and wellness benefits to children in need around the world.
• Discover the community and public relations benefits to park and recreation agencies that partner with KATW through case studies.
• Understand how partnering with KATW to provide Playgrounds, OneMeal, and KidStory can provide physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits to kids in greatest need around the world.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 22 - Succession Planning is Dead! Long Live Succession Planning!
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kristin Strunk, People and Culture Leader, Regent Leadership Group
We have all been there! The task of succession planning hangs over organizations like old and dusty drapes from a bygone era. It is a holdover from a time when people moved from Jr. Accountant to Accountant to Sr. Accountant to Jr. Accounting Manager to Accounting Manager—and their careers ended with the same company they started with. I have been working in Human Resources for a quarter of a century, and I can point to exactly one succession plan that worked the way we planned it to. I challenge you to think about "succession planning" as an outdated model. What if there was a new way to approach leadership planning and operations continuity in organizations that had less to do with climbing a career ladder and more to do with well-rounded experiences? Organizations are living, breathing organisms that evolve and change at alarming rates. What if we prepared people for the future in our organizations rather than merely preparing them for a title on paper?
Learning Objectives:
• Discuss the fundamental misalignment of succession planning.
• Learn what other options are available for ensuring leadership continuity.
• Develop a roadmap for making the transition in your organization.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 400 - Official Officials—Officiating in Parks and Recreation
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Roosevelt 3AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Dan Reamer, Physical Instructor, Chicago Park District; Roberto Lugo, Chicago Park District; Christian Kopp, Power Wellness
Officiating is one of the toughest aspects to manage as a park and recreation professional. This session will cover all aspects of officiating in the modern-day sports setting. We will discuss topics such as recruiting, training, managing, and maintaining officials, as well as officiating trends. You will be presented with real-life officiating scenarios and will be given the tools to solve these often complex issues.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the complexity of finding quality sports officials.
• Identify strategies to hire, maintain, and manage sports officials.
• Learn how to respond to a shortage of officials.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 418 - Forward-Thinking Aquatics
Forward-Thinking Aquatics
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Caroline Reimann, Aquatic Programming Supervisor, Oak Brook Park District; Grant Gilchrist, Aquatic Manager, Oak Brook Park District
In this session, you will learn how to navigate aquatic operations, restructure programming, and rebuild staff in the post-pandemic era.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to restructure aquatic programming.
• Gain insight into methods for rebuilding staff.
• Understand how to reinvent aquatic operations.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 503 - Reframing Your Programs Through a Trauma-Informed Lens
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Donna Allen Rielage, Founder and CEO, AllenForce; Marete Larson, AllenForce; Janada Gibbs
In this session, you will dissect data and examples from the Equine Assisted Coaching, Women Retreats, and other veteran programming by AllenForce using a trauma-informed approach to facilitation. Learn how to interpret these tools for success in your agency. Gain insight into mental health and wellness tools that allow you to cultivate an environment conducive to creating a human connection within programs, which in turn, is saving lives.
Learning Objectives:
• Define your mission within wellness programming and build your foundation for programs on sustainment and cohesiveness with the community.
• Create your own tools to address one or more of the eight components of accessibility of whole health.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 609 - Pickleball Palooza—What is the Big Dill?
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Andy Howard, Principal, Hitchcock Design Group; Carl Schmits, USA Pickleball Association; Tim Beckmann, Division Director of Park & Facility Services, Glenview Park District
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in America. How do recreation providers plan for this fast-paced growth? This session will focus on the planning process for developing outdoor pickleball facilities and the essential design elements that are crucial for their success.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to design for America's fastest-growing sport.
• Understand the process used for planning future pickleball facilities and strategies for engaging the community and stakeholders in the planning process.
• Identify key design elements for outdoor pickleball facilities (both tennis court conversions and new construction) and the latest trends and products in pickleball facility design.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 900 - Selling Sponsorship in Style—The Do’s and Don’ts
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Haley Colucci, Marketing & Communications Manager, Oak Brook Park District; Rachel Jones, Corporate & Community Relations, Oak Brook Park District; Erik Ruiz, Graphic Designer, Oak Brook Park District
What is your sponsorship process? Maybe you have a robust program developed, maybe you work with partners that approach you from time to time, and maybe, this is territory your agency has yet to tap into. The marketing department at the Oak Brook Park District is excited to share how they re-evaluated, revamped, and re-designed their sponsorship experience, starting with the hook—the marketing materials that help seal the deal. In order to prepare your agency with the tools for successful initial conversations with potential sponsors, vendors, and partners, you must start at the beginning—valuation, identification of opportunities, and branding. Creating an attractive marketing material, such as the “Sponsorship Opportunities Brochure” we will be discussing, comes with its challenges. We are here today to share our experience and the do’s and don’ts to help YOUR team!
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to best work with your immediate team and agency to identify and compile valuable opportunities for businesses to engage with your community.
• Determine how to tell your visual “sponsorship story.” The speakers will cover the importance of layout, design, branding, and even DEI to tell your agency’s story within this marketing piece.
• Gain insight into the speakers’ experience, recommendations, and actions to avoid, as a marketing piece this big can come with several roadblocks.
8:30 am - 9:30 am 909 - Rising Above the Rest—Transforming Parks Through Smart Drone Use
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Mitchell T. Fransen, Parks Planning and Development, City of Kirkland, WA; Eric Lee Wilson, Owner/Operator, Excel Aerial Images
Eric Lee Wilson and Mitchell T. Fransen will take you to the skies in a session filled with in-depth drone service insights. Explore how drones have the power to revolutionize perspectives for park and recreation agencies, whether through captivating marketing imagery, precise site surveying, or comprehensive aerial mapping. Uncover how aerial media expands constituent knowledge and empowers staff with invaluable property data, all within this enlightening session.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the legal bounds surrounding drones, while dispelling common misconceptions in the industry. Real-world examples will be delivered, showcasing agencies harnessing the power of aerial media.
• Gain insight into the variety of ways drones have been used in park and recreation agencies across the state and nation. You will discover a range of captivating use cases that highlight the versatility of drones in parks.
• Explore how drones extend far beyond imaging, playing a pivotal role in constituent engagement and enhanced mapping of invaluable parklands. You will uncover the ways in which drones are shaping the realms of planning and mapping.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 03 - NRPA | IAPD | IPRA Executive Directors' Roundtable
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kristine Stratton, President and CEO, National Recreation and Park Association; Susie Kuruvilla, Executive Director, Gurnee Park District; Arnold Randall, General Superintendent, Forest Preserve District of Cook County
Whether you are a new executive director or a seasoned veteran, this session will provide a confidential peer-to-peer forum for exchanging ideas, problem-solving, and crowd-sourcing answers to some of your toughest agency challenges. Hosted by NPRA President and CEO Kristine Stratton, and facilitated by Susie Kuruvilla, Executive Director of the Gurnee Park District, and Arnold Randall, General Superintendent of the Cook County Forest Preserve District, this highly interactive session will offer you the opportunity to seek advice, share stories, highlight accomplishments, and learn tips and strategies from others' shared experiences.
Learning Objectives:
• Discuss timely, sensitive issues related to parks, recreation, and conservation.
• Gain new perspectives and strategies from others' shared experiences.
• Connect with peers from different parts of Illinois.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 1002 - Building a Robust Commitment to DEIA and Getting Results in a Diverse Community
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Emily Cahill, Executive Director, Peoria Park District; Brent Wheeler, Deputy Director, Peoria Park District; Shalesse Pie, Superintendent of Human Resources, Peoria Park District; Scott Loftus, Superintendent of Recreation, Peoria Park District; Rebecca Fredrickson, Superintendent of Planning, Design and Construction, Peoria Park District
Building a strong diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) program takes more than merely desire. It takes thoughtful strategy, as well as the willingness to consider the reallocation of resources and long-term commitment to change. In this session, Peoria Park District staff will provide a timeline to influence DEIA in programming, workforce development, and contracting/procurement policies. Both governance and operational experience will be offered and explained, including the process for building a productive committee system. We will also offer strategies to meet local and state unfunded mandate requirements. You will learn about the positive impact of a Welcoming Resolution and customer service strategies focused on this issue, as well as efforts that help to increase staff diversity and build the soft skills of our youth workforce.
Learning Objectives:
• Receive the building blocks to develop your own organizational strategy focused on DEIA.
• Gain knowledge about building DEIA strategy and making an impact in a diverse community.
• Learn about DEIA strategies tied to capital projects and purchasing strategies to support minority and women-owned businesses.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 105 - Board Member to Board Leader—Part II
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Dannielle Wilson, Manager, BerryDunn
Great volunteers just keep on giving—and then come back for more! (Sounds familiar, board members?) If you’re itching for more, this session covers topics that previous years’ attendees at Part 1 of the Board Member to Board Member series have requested. We’ll dive into new topics like working with difficult residents, promoting long-term thinking, advancing agenda items, leading efficient meetings, and assessing your director. Led by a current park board commissioner and former park board secretary, you’ll learn from those with practical experience on both sides of the table in an engaging and lighthearted atmosphere. Whether you’ve participated in Part 1 before or are new to the series, join us for this not-to-miss session!
Learning Objectives:
• Identify strategies you would like to employ in your boardsmanship.
• Learn to demonstrate new approaches to working through difficult situations.
• Bring practical suggestions and tools back to your fellow board members.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 108 - Girl Power—Are You Ready? Get Set and Lead!
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Carrie Fullerton, Executive Director, Arlington Heights Park District; Maryfran Leno, Executive Director, Itasca Park District; Rita Fletcher, Executive Director, Bartlett Park District
Being a leader is definitely not easy. Most people are quick to evaluate the decisions and actions of leaders, without ever considering what it took to get to that decision or course of action. Others may often think, “If I were the leader, I’d have done it this way”, without ever fully understanding the issue and how it affects everyone, not just them! Join us to discuss several key aspects of leadership, including what may be holding you back from succeeding in this area, what it takes to be a successful/inspiring female leader, and strategies to grow your leadership skills.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn to identify behaviors/actions that prevent you from being an effective leader.
• Recognize the actions and attitudes that are necessary to be an effective leader.
• Learn strategies to help grow your leadership skills.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 1107 - The Living Map
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kim Compton, Education and Visitor Center Services Coordinator, McHenry County Conservation District
Restoration ecology and natural history can be complicated subjects. But by using the living map, we provide an engaging visual that teaches 300 years of natural history to students as young as third graders. The living map is a three-dimensional representation of the area that is Glacial Park in northern Illinois today. Using puppets and other props, we illustrate how the area changed over the years, bringing us all the way to today's restoration efforts.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to teach elements of natural history and restoration ecology to your own students.
• Gain the skills necessary to build your own living map.
• Understand how to adapt the living map of Glacial Park to be used at your own site.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 111 - Legal/Legislative—Part II
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Steven Adams, Partner, Robbins Schwartz
Review the various new laws, regulations, court decisions, and PAC opinions issued in 2023 with top legal experts. We will explain how the new laws work, how they impact your agency, and what your agency needs to do to maintain legal compliance.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about a wide range of new legislation, cases, and PAC opinions on a wide range of subjects including OMA/FOIA, employment law, public health and safety, human rights, property taxes, and more.
• Receive expert practical advice on how to ensure compliance with changes in the law.
• Get up-to-date on key changes in the law that affect all aspects of park and forest preserve district operations.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 13 - Delegation IS Leadership
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Annie Frisoli, Founder & CEO, Creating Community, LLC
Delegation isn’t just telling someone what to do or assigning tasks to them. It also involves giving authority and responsibilities to individuals or a team and providing the resources, direction, and support needed to achieve the expected results. This interactive session will have you assess your delegation skills, discuss the barriers to delegating, and ultimately discuss strategies for healthy delegation.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify your current delegation skills by completing a delegation skills assessment.
• Discuss the four-stage Delegation Cycle Model.
• Use the Delegation Cycle Model to create a delegation strategy for your team.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 201 - All Charged Up—Everybody’s Talking about Electrification
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jarrod Scheunemann, Vice President & Partner, Campfire Concepts; Phillip Rowell, Owner & CEO, Ion
Have you considered EV recharging solutions for your fleet and residents? Come to this session to find answers to some of your “What’s possible?” questions in the EV charging market, as well as discuss exciting new grant sources, reduced environmental impacts, and ways to save money. Join us to learn from several case studies in Illinois about why the future of parks and recreation is electrifying.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain a better understanding of EV charging solutions.
• Determine if your agency qualifies for EV charging grant opportunities.
• Learn from parks and recreation EV charging case studies in Illinois.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 301 - Fundamentals of IT Security for Everyone
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Randolph AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Robert Pechous, Superintendent of Communications & IT, Oak Brook Park District; Randy Wilson, Network Manager, PDRMA
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, understanding the fundamentals of IT security is crucial for individuals and organizations alike. No matter what department you work in at your agency, this information is important to everyone. This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the core principles and concepts that form the foundation of IT security. We will also discuss the human factor in IT security. You will learn about the importance of creating a security-conscious culture within your organization. We will explore techniques for raising security awareness, conducting effective security training programs, and fostering a sense of responsibility among employees. The presentation also sheds light on social engineering tactics and the psychology behind cyberattacks, empowering you to recognize and mitigate potential threats.
Learning Objectives:
• Understanding the core principles, concepts, and terminology of IT security.
• Identify and assess common cybersecurity risks and threats.
• Learn the best practices and security controls for protecting digital assets.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 313 - How to Not Only Apply for Your Dream Job But Get It—Best Kept Secrets from a Marketer
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Amy Seklecki, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Arlington Heights Park District
Have you found it challenging to secure an interview for that job you applied for? Maybe you aren't getting to the second, third, or even final round. In this session, you'll walk away with the confidence, key steps, and secrets to successfully apply for that job you've been eyeing and turn that dream into a reality. No one knows your work like you do but you'll leave this session understanding how you can best market yourself as a candidate they won't forget!
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to create a resume that sets you apart from other candidates.
• Learn hacks for before, during, and after your interview.
• Discover how to best market yourself.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 413 - The Secret Sauce to Successful Programming—"It's In There"
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Roosevelt 3AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Tanita Cook -Nelson, Facilitator
What is the secret sauce for your programming? What ingredients make your program stand out? The intended outcome of this professional development session, The Secret Sauce of Programming, as with Prego," It's in there…" is to help you understand how you can consistently include the ingredients of being intentional, impactful, and informative in your program. This will allow you to produce the secret sauce of relevant and effective programming that meets the immediate and strategic needs of your community.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the essential ingredients for intentional, impactful, and informative programming.
• Understand the importance of relevant programming that meets the immediate and strategic needs of your community.
• Develop a recipe using tools and share it with fellow programmers.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 415 - CHAMPs! Classroom/Group Management from the Classroom into Recreation!
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Kimberly Barton, Superintendent of Recreation, Hoffman Estates Park District; Natalie Wood, Early Childhood Program Manager, Hoffman Estates Park District
Child behaviors are at an all-time high! Learn about how Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, and Participation (CHAMPs) can help you be proactive in setting up expectations for the groups you are working with. This acronym reflects the types of expectations used by the teacher to clarify the activity and transitions occurring in class. Randy Sprick, the co-author of CHAMPs, designed this program to help classroom teachers develop a proactive and positive classroom environment so that learning time can be maximized.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn to develop a safe, consistent, and positive environment.
• Increase the communication in the classroom to foster ongoing voices and behaviors with all parties involved.
• Create a positive culture that is intentionally designed to build and maintain relationships and community.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 505 - Soaring to New Heights with The Alliance and Self-Advocacy!
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Tara Ahern, Operations Director, Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance, Inc.; Adam Wiser, Project Director, Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance, Inc
“We want to learn skills; we want to make changes; and we want to help others.” The Illinois Self-Advocacy Alliance, Inc. (better known simply as The Alliance) is a statewide network of self-advocates, advocacy groups, and allies in Illinois. Funded by the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities, we work together to make life better in our communities and work towards improving the services for people with disabilities in Illinois. Our focus is to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to speak up and speak out about what they want/need, don’t want/don’t need, action plan their goals, and participate in advocacy at the personal, community, and statewide levels. Join us to learn about The Alliance and our various services, such as advocacy group support, presentations, leadership training, and much more!
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about the importance of self-advocacy in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Learn about the services offered by The Alliance.
• Recognize how The Alliance can support and enhance your organization's self-advocacy efforts.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 605 - Crisis Management for Active Threat Situations
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Joseph Crimmins, President, Serve and Protect Law LLC; Mike Kies, Superintendent of Recreation, St. Charles; Lynne Yuill, St. Charles Park District; Katie Miller, St. Charles Park District
This crisis management training is customized to the unique needs of a park district preparing for an active threat/workplace violence incident. Unlike schools or corporate campuses, park district facilities are open and unsecured. Keeping the building safe is a challenge, not to mention keeping children in programming secure in a non-secure building. This presentation will cover risk assessments of park district buildings and the staff training that should follow, mass notification strategies to immediately alert all staff of an active threat, and safely conducting a live training exercise during programming hours. The session will include a panel of two park district administrators who are currently involved in conducting active threat training exercises and will share their real-world experiences.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about facility risk assessment and how it can make your facility safer in an active threat situation.
• Identify and implement crisis management strategies that will help staff members successfully respond to an active threat Incident.
• Learn how to conduct an active threat training exercise for staff during programming hours.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 901 - Sponsorships—It Takes a Team
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Stacey Fontechia, Sales and Sponsorship Manager, Naperville Park District; Sameera Luthman, Director of Marketing, Naperville Park District; Tim Quigley, Director of Parks, Naperville Park District; Susan Buziecki, Superintendent of Facilities, Naperville Park District; Brittany Malatt, Program Manager, Naperville Park District
Hear from five members of the Naperville Park District staff, including the Sales and Sponsorship Manager, Director of Marketing, Director of Parks, Superintendent of Facilities, and a Program Manager, in a panel discussion on the importance of working together as a team. We will discuss how sponsorship and advertising revenue benefits the district, specifically from each department, and how everyone comes together and collaborates to make sponsorships a success for our partners.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to work within your organization and departments to create successful partnerships that everyone can support.
• Understand how to implement the sponsorships and how everyone comes together to make that happen while supporting our partners.
• Learn what is important to each department when it comes to sponsorships, revenue, and having those conversations.
10:00 am - 11:00 am 902 - Marketing and Communications Roundtable 1.0
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Amy Seklecki, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Arlington Heights Park District
Join your fellow marketing and communications professionals for roundtable discussions on trending topics, such as sponsorship, photography/videography, hiring, emerging tech, digital and print communications, branding, and more. This session will provide an excellent opportunity to network with both new and familiar faces in the industry. If you can't attend this session, don't worry; you'll have another chance to do so at Marketing and Communications Roundtable 2.0!
Learning Objectives:
• Meet and network with like-minded marketing professionals.
• Discuss best practices in marketing and communications for parks and recreation.
• Brainstorm new marketing initiatives and tailor them to your district.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 1103 - Naperville Park District Stream Restoration Case Study
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Keith Gray, President, ILM Environments
The Naperville Park District manages more than 2,400 acres of parkland, which includes both natural areas and landscaped areas. As part of its commitment to caring for the environment, this park district works to restore the health and diversity of natural areas, including woodlands, park meadows, shorelines, ponds and streams, and prairies. In the summer of 2023, the park district embarked on restoring 2,200 linear feet of highly eroded stream bank originating at Stanford Meadows Park and ultimately feeding into a residential detention basin. In this session, we will explore the unexpected challenges and techniques used to restore this stream that runs through a suburban neighborhood.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand why stream restoration is important.
• Learn about stream stabilization techniques.
• Understand resident misconceptions about clearing invasive trees and learn how to address them.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 207 - Park Maintenance Round Table
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Todd King, Director of Parks and Planning, Schaumburg Park District; Ed Christenson, Park Manager, Schaumburg Park District
During this roundtable session, we will cover a variety of topics related to parks, such as best practices for park maintenance and upkeep, challenges and solutions in managing sports fields and turf, technology integrations, maintaining a balance between recreation and conservation goals within a park district, nature and pound maintenance, and playground inspections.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain valuable insights into park maintenance.
• Learn how new technology is working in the parks department at Schaumburg.
• Walk away with ideas you can implement in your parks department.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 21 - iLearn—The Makings of a Sustainability Project Proposal
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Roosevelt 3AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Alyx Bibbs, Student, UIUC; Amber Ranger, Student, UIUC; Isa Muhammad, Student, UIUC; Sol Ochoa, Student, UIUC
iLearn is a student-centered development program, in which teams of undergraduate and graduate students work together to complete a project on a topic related to parks, recreation, and conservation. These teams compete against each other for an opportunity to present their project at the Soaring to New Heights Conference. This year’s competition challenged student teams to develop a sustainability project proposal based on a case study and resources from a park district in Illinois. The winning iLearn team from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign will present (TBA). Special thanks to the Oak Brook Park District for providing the iLearn Committee with insight and access to information for students to utilize as part of this case study.
Learning Objectives:
• TBA
• TBA
• TBA
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 314 - Investing Park District Dollars—Maximizing Impact and Returns
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Michelle Binns, Director, PFM Asset Management LLC; Matt Hanigan, Senior Managing Consultant, PFM Asset Management LLC
Join us for this speed session if you would like to learn how to effectively invest your dollars for maximum impact and returns. Discover investment strategies tailored to the unique needs and objectives of park districts while prioritizing safety, liquidity, and yield in the current rate environment and beyond.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn practical strategies and best practices for achieving a well-rounded investment program that safeguards taxpayer dollars, provides sufficient liquidity, and maximizes returns.
• Learn how to assess and manage cash flows and liquidity considerations, ensuring the availability of funds for operational needs.
• Explore different investment options and learn how they may help improve returns.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 318 - Planning the Perfect Panel Interview—Enhancing the Candidate Experience
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kristin Strunk, Global Director of People and Culture, ManpowerGroup
Panel interviews can be tricky! Who asks which questions? How much time do spend on introductions? How transparent are we going to be? In this session, we will discuss how you can conduct a well-planned panel interview, which is an effective way to enhance the candidate experience and speed up the talent acquisition process.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn when panel interviews are the most effective and how to plan for one.
• Find out which questions work the best in a panel setting.
• Determine the next steps when interviewers cannot agree on a candidate.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 406 - Unleashing Revenue Potential—Harnessing Data and Automation for Tennis and Pickleball Success
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Ashley Owens, Founder, CourtReserve
Data and automation can help improve day-to-day processes, enhance visibility for opportunities for engagement with players, and drive revenue across programming, lessons, and registrations throughout the various parks and recreation departments. Leveraging technology capitalizes on the utilization of spaces, allows administrative efficiency gains in terms of labor, and reduces the cost of human error.
Learning Objectives:
• Gain the skills and knowledge needed to leverage data and automation for enhanced operational efficiency, ultimately driving revenue growth.
• Acquire a profound understanding of how technology can elevate visibility, resulting in a surge of registrations, enriched programming, enhanced lessons, and optimal utilization of spaces.
• Discover the significant impact of online processes in reducing manual labor, increasing productivity, and driving revenue.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 416 - Going Digital—ePACT
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Anna Schuld, KASPER Manager, Schaumburg Park District; Kimberly Barton, Superintendent of Recreation, Hoffman Estates Park District
Tired of having paper and binders everywhere? Tired of keeping boxes of paper for 10 years? This session is for you! Come learn about ePACT from two field supervisors who use this network and have already found out what works.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how you can help other supervisors in the field use ePACT.
• Demonstrate the effectiveness of ePACT and going digital.
• Understand how using digital sign-in and sign-out can make the process and data management easier.
12:15 pm - 1:15 pm 910 - Web Accessibility and the Americans with Disabilities Act
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Juan Acevedo, Superintendent of Marketing and Communications, Wheeling Park District; Tom Draper, Superintendent of Marketing and Communications, NWSRA; Kelly Holan, Marketing Manager, Wheeling Park District; Kelsi Stephenson, Marketing Manager, Wheeling Park District
Inaccessible web content means that community members with disabilities may be denied equal access to park and recreation information. An inaccessible website can exclude community members in the same way that the poor design of a facility would. In the last couple of years, ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities has been a priority for the federal government (U.S. Department of Justice, 2022), which recently published guidance on how state and local governments (entities covered by ADA Title II) and businesses open to the public (entities covered by ADA Title III) can make sure that their websites are accessible to people with disabilities, in line with the ADA’s requirements. Park and recreation agencies must learn how these barriers on the web can keep community members with disabilities from accessing program information, as well as how they can be prevented or removed.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand how the ADA applies to state and local governments (Title II), such as park districts and businesses that are open to the public (Title III).
• Learn about the importance of web accessibility for community members with disabilities and how some web designs may decrease accessibility.
• Get tips on making web content accessible, including how to read and follow the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), use online tools to monitor accessibility, and create a statement of accessibility.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 1005 - The Goal of Belonging—Implementing DEI Within Your District’s Summer Camps and Rec Programming
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Claire Kent, Recreation Supervisor of Active Adults and General Interest, Downers Grove Park District; Ryan Maywin, Supervisor of Natural Areas and Programs, Downers Grove Park District
Everyone wants to feel like they belong, but how do we ensure a positive and inclusive experience for our communities? This session will focus on the specifics of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) through the lens of summer camps. It will offer tools and ideas for training part-time/seasonal recreation staff on DEI and explain how you can integrate these policies into real-life practices for your team and patrons. We will also perform workshop activities that can be used for self-reflection both for part-time and full-time recreation staff.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the key definitions of DEI and their application to recreational programming and summer camps.
• Learn how to appropriately and effectively train part-time/seasonal recreation staff on DEI within your district.
• Examine common DEI policies and actionable procedures in your district programming and summer camps, as well as their levels of impact and inclusivity.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 11 - Laughter as Medicine—Using Comedy for Staff Wellbeing and Managing Burnout
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Randolph AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Ethan Blumenthal, Founder & CEO, Knuckleball Comedy LLC
In this engaging and interactive session, join Knuckleball Comedy for a laughter-filled experience that combines fun games, exercises, and improv comedy to boost staff engagement and foster a positive work environment. Through a series of carefully designed activities, you will learn how to become better active listeners, enhance your communication skills, and make others feel valued and respected. By infusing the power of comedy into the workshop, we aim to uplift spirits, ignite creativity, and ultimately improve overall staff well-being. Get ready to laugh, connect, and leave with a refreshed perspective on teamwork and collaboration.
Learning Objectives:
• Enhance your ability to actively listen and engage with others, improving communication and fostering stronger connections within the team.
• Learn how to create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture that values individuals, ultimately boosting staff morale and well-being, through fun and interactive exercises.
• Develop a deeper understanding of teamwork, trust, and cooperation, leading to more effective and efficient collaboration among team members, by participating in collaborative comedy games and exercises.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 1102 - Break Out of Your Shell—Working Across Departments For Richer Engagement
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Derek Gronlund, Environmental Interpretation Supervisor, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
How do you connect people to conservation science and showcase how research has relevance in their lives? Hear how collaboration between multiple departments opened up a one-of-a-kind aquatic research facility to the public through a series of engagements that combine cutting-edge science, STEM programming, and science communication. Discover the steps you can take to begin facilitating similar experiences at your site and learn how you can communicate your mission in a way that is accessible to many audiences.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the importance of cross-department collaboration, and how taking this approach can reveal engaging ways to fulfill an organization’s mission and vision.
• Identify unique aspects of your organization and understand how to develop engaging programming opportunities from that work.
• Gain insight into how a site successfully developed a suite of programs that connect the audience to the mission, using a concrete example.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 200 - Advancements in Water Feature Management
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Keith Gray, President, ILM Environments
Do you have a lake or pond on your site that requires constant attention? Do you ever wonder if there is an easier or more eco-friendly way to go about managing it? This session will explore some of the new technologies that claim to minimize reliance on chemical herbicides or eliminate their use altogether in order to maintain aesthetics. We will explore the effectiveness of remote early algae detectors that allow for the treatment of algae as soon as it forms, therefore requiring fewer chemicals, sonic algae-killing devices that use ultrasound technology to control algae without the use of any chemicals, and nutrient deactivators that serve as a proactive means of removing the phosphorus in the water that feeds algae and many aquatic plants that are a nuisance. Time for discussion about your site-specific issues will be made available at the end of the session; be sure to bring your questions!
Learning Objectives:
• Understand potential new ways to manage your lake or pond.
• Learn about chemical-free options for lake or pond management.
• Address the obstacles to getting your lake or pond back to a healthy state.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 309 - Collaboration Transformation and the Employee Experience
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kelly Grosskreutz, Modern Work Practice Manager, Heartland Business Systems
This session will focus on how collaboration and file management are undergoing a transformation across the professional community. In this session, we will explore some of the modern tools available while focusing on the keys to bridging the human experience. Learn how to inspire your teammates to want to learn a new way of working rather than resisting change.
Learning Objectives:
• Envision the art of the possible with modern collaboration tools.
• Pick up helpful tips and tricks on how to encourage adoption with non-technical and/or skeptical teammates when new tools are introduced.
• Have some fun!
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 317 - Parental Leave and Benefit Offerings—How to Remain Competitive in a Changing Environment
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Johnathan Kiwala, Executive Director, Kenilworth Park District; Bill Byron, Executive Director, Northfield Park District
Every company, big or small, struggles with employee retention. Good employees are hard to find and, after the COVID-19 pandemic, hard to keep. The benefits landscape in private industry has changed drastically over the past five years. Gone are the days when government pensions are enough to entice new, competent employees into the workforce when there are more lucrative, competitive options out there. This session will take you through the various pros and cons of updating the comprehensive benefits packages for your public entities. In this session, we will discuss current research, starting with parental leave, and explain why agencies may not be stacking up to their private business counterparts. Additionally, other benefit options will be discussed that have been offered in other park districts for employee recruitment and retention, such as bonuses, gym memberships, childcare discounts, and more.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about current industry standards related to parental leave, allowing you to measure the offerings provided by your current agency.
• Gain access to sample parental leave policies that have been adopted by fellow agencies that you can use to develop your own policy.
• Learn out-of-the-box ideas for both small and large organizations related to effective employee retention and recruitment methods.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 417 - Reimagining Success in Youth Sports
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Nick McDuffee, Parks and Recreation Director, Village of Savoy
What does success look like in youth sports? It is commonly said that it is not about winning, but is this true when we focus on winning outcomes? In a world where we are reaching out to the everyday player, perhaps our idea of success should shift. A child's first experience in youth sports helps redefine winning so that, eventually, every athlete on the field can have successful outcomes. In this session, we will discuss how to set up your league and redefine success from top to bottom and every kid at the ballpark can experience the “win”.
Learning Objectives:
• Refocus your priorities to enrich each child’s experience.
• Learn how to set your coaches up for success.
• Relook at coaching, practices, games, rules, officiating, and parent roles to find more success for each young athlete.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 419 - Fitness and Wellness Program Management
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Elizabeth Antman, Fitness Manager, Wilmette Park District
In the fitness club industry, we have been experiencing a gradual shift in people's attitudes from fitness to health. Losing weight remains the number one reason people begin an exercise program. However, while the desire to manage weight is still predominantly for reasons of appearance, there is an increasing awareness of the health implications of being overweight. People are becoming more interested in reducing stress, increasing energy, feeling better, improving overall health, performing daily tasks more easily, and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. They are stepping up and taking responsibility for their health and the consequences of poor lifestyle choices. As their attitudes shift, programming must also shift to meet the needs and goals of the people exercising in our facilities. In this session, we will discuss fitness and wellness programs that help our members achieve their health-oriented goals. We will also discuss fitness promotions that can increase membership numbers and revenue.
Learning Objectives:
• Examine current trends in fitness and wellness programming.
• Learn how fitness programming and promotions can drive membership and revenue.
• Identify ways to partner with other departments in your park district.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 504 - The Healing Power of SOUL—Sharing of Unconditional Love and the Human-Animal Bond
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Crystal Ballroom B, West Tower, Green/Lobby Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jodie Diegel, RN, MBA, Nurse Coach, SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program
This session on Sharing of Unconditional Love (SOUL) will consist of a one-hour-long immersive experience engaging in animal-assisted therapy, with Jodie Diegel as the nurse coach facilitator. You will be introduced to animal-assisted therapy and the various benefits of the human-animal bond and Mindful Mini Meditation led by Jodie Diegel (relaxation, breathing). You will learn how to focus on your connections with our special animals and one another. You will become consciously aware of what it means to be present in the here and now, to let go and just “be”.
Enjoy SOUL-to-SOUL connections with our therapy animals, including visiting, petting, hugging, and lots of photos!
Learning Objectives:
• Improve your well-being, including greater relaxation, smiling, feelings of happiness, and less stress.
• Enhance your communication through greater connection and camaraderie with one another due to therapy animals being present.
• Improve your knowledge regarding the power of the human-animal bond, the professionalism of registered therapy teams, and H.E.A.R.T. and SOUL concepts.
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 907 - Crowdsource Your Marketing—How Enlisting the Public Can Help You Achieve More
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Chad Merda, Digital Communications Manager, Forest Preserve District of Will County; Katie McCollum, Digital and Print Marketing Specialist, Forest Preserve District of Will County
Is your marketing department tapped out in terms of what it can accomplish at your current staffing level? What if you could enlist an army of hundreds or even thousands of people to help, all at no cost to you? That's exactly what the Forest Preserve District of Will County has done over the years through a variety of initiatives to crowdsource material for its marketing department. You already have way more boots on the ground than you have on your payroll; why not use that to your advantage? There are many ways to accomplish this, such as gamifying programs and marketing campaigns through interactive mobile apps, leveraging user-generated content to supercharge your social media presence, and using online listening tools to generate story leads to help keep the public informed. This session will provide specific examples backed by data, including some from our year-long Take It Outside campaign and corresponding app challenge, to show meaningful results that your organization can achieve by using some or all of these techniques.
Learning Objectives:
• Leverage social media and technology to expand your presence digitally and in your community.
• Increase participation in your organization’s programming and marketing initiatives, both in person and online.
• Raise the public’s awareness of topics that relate to your organization’s mission and principles.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 1006 - The Look of the “NEW” Professional
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Darleen Negrillo MHRM, PHR, CPRP, Superintendent of Administrative Services, Northwest Special Recreation Association; Haley Colucci, CPRP, Marketing & Communications Manager, Oak Brook Park District
Today's professionals look rather different than they did a few decades ago. Inclusion in our districts is changing what we view as an acceptable look for incoming professionals. As a community organization, how do you manage this? What do you find acceptable and what should you find acceptable? In this session, we will discuss the future of how our employees will present themselves in interviews and the workplace.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about the looks that can cause “issues”.
• Gain insight into new and current laws regarding current work dress codes.
• Learn about what to expect moving forward.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 103 - Survey Says…!—Best Practices for Community Surveys and Public Engagement
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jeff Andreasen, President, aQity Research & Insights, Inc.; Tessa Andreasen, Sr. Project Manager, aQity Research & Insights, Inc.; Danielle Wilson, Manager, BerryDunn
Are you interested in knowing your community’s true feelings? Keep up with the latest community engagement trends as survey design techniques and new technology continually evolve to address the changing preferences of respondents. We will cover the various survey options that agencies use, including "open" versus random sample community-wide surveys, voter and pre-referenda polls, and DIY satisfaction feedback forms. Similarly, other forms of engagement, such as pop-up events, idea boards, online platforms, focus groups, and virtual and in-person listening sessions, seek to push the envelope further to broaden and deepen public feedback. This session will cover best practices for surveys and public engagement by identifying new and proven approaches, potential pitfalls, and deliverables that allow agencies to best leverage public input to help inform key decisions.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand, utilize, and benefit from proven best practices on survey design, sampling, and data collection to ensure accurate results.
• Understand analysis and reporting techniques that deliver more in-depth insights and actionable survey findings.
• Identify and develop a creative community engagement strategy that best meets both short- and long-term connection outcomes.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 106 - Agency State Accreditation—A Blueprint to Excellence!
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Michigan 3, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jason Herbster, Executive Director, Crystal Lake Park District; Ron Salski, Executive Director, Mundelein Park and Recreation District
This session will provide you with an overview of the Illinois Association of Park Districts / Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IAPD/IPRA) State Accreditation, as well as the necessary processes, time, and requirements for achieving the prestigious status of being a distinguished accredited agency in the State of Illinois. The topics covered will include the application and self-assessment process, the mentor program, and helpful hints on how to successfully become accredited. We will also review sample standards to provide insight and details as to what documentation is required. The scoring, benefits, and history of this statewide program will also be covered.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn the basics of the processes and requirements necessary to achieve distinguished accredited status within the park and recreation industry in Illinois.
• Learn about the six sections of accreditation standards that comprise the accreditation process.
• Understand the various types of documentation needed to fulfill the standards and the various methods of presenting the collected information.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 1106 - Under Pressure—The Region's Green Vision for Restoration, Resilience, and Equitable Access
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Roosevelt 3AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Elizabeth Kessler, Executive Director/Chair, McHenry County Conservation District/Chicago Wilderness Alliance; Laura Reilly, Chicago Wilderness Alliance Coordinator, Chicago Wilderness Alliance; Mark Bouman, Ph.D., Chicago Region Program Director, Field Museum; Mark Johnston, Ph.D., Lead GIS Analyst and Conservation Ecologist, Field Museum; Cathy Geraghty, Director of Strategic Initiatives, Forest Preserve District of Cook County
There is no doubt that our planet is under pressure as never before. Our region is home to a spectacular assemblage of rare ecosystems and diverse plant and animal species. The time to protect these vulnerable assets and take conservation action is now and we need all hands on deck! The executive order issued by President Biden to conserve 30% of land and water by 2030 has sparked renewed momentum. In the largely urbanized areas of the four-state Chicago Wilderness Alliance region, the capacity to deliver on the 30 x 30 goals will come not just from traditional conservation land and waters but also from activating every land type—agriculture, residential, and corporate—to contribute meaningfully to landscape-scale conservation. As a regional collaborative of hundreds of partner organizations and individuals working together to implement landscape-scale approaches to conservation in and around the southern shores of Lake Michigan, the Chicago Wilderness Alliance is proactively addressing the conservation challenge! The Green Vision Initiatives include seven key thematic areas and use a centralized framework to guide, track, and implement progress toward a common vision and an inclusive approach to develop a thriving habitat for both people and wildlife.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about some of the greatest conservation concerns of our time and how parks, recreation, and conservation practitioners can collaborate to implement nature-based solutions to ensure climate resilience and healthy lands, water, and biodiversity.
• Learn practical ways to take conservation action and contribute to the Chicago Wilderness Alliance's Green Vision Initiatives to meet the challenges of a changing climate and ensure equitable access for all.
• Navigate the available data resources, spatial data, and maps to track and visualize the region's collective progress toward restoring, connecting, and conserving 30% of land and water by 2030.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 114 - Bidding and Managing a Successful Construction Project
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Nicole Karas, Attorney, Robbins Schwartz; Matthew Gardner, Attorney, Robbins Schwartz
This program provides a detailed review of the competitive bidding and procurement rules that govern park and forest preserve districts. We will address scenarios in which bidding is required, bidding procedures, and related problems, such as determining the lowest responsible bidder, as well as understanding what to do with defective bids and when and how to use government joint purchasing cooperatives. We will then provide key strategies on how to successfully navigate a construction project, starting from team selection to project closeout.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn competitive bidding rules, bid awards, and how to handle bidding problems.
• Learn about the opportunities and limitations of government joint purchasing cooperatives.
• Learn some key strategies for navigating a successful construction project.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 118 - Attributes of a Great Leader
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Leon Younger, President, PROS Consulting, Inc.; Jayne Miller, Principle, PROS Consulting, Inc
Leon Younger and Jayne Miller have worked directly with over 700 parks and recreation systems and directors throughout the United States. They have both been directors of large city parks, park districts, and county park systems. Over the last 29 years, they have supported directors in developing master plans, feasibility studies, strategic plans, business plans, and financial plans. During the course of their work, they have encountered directors who have special attributes and the ability to lead their staff to operate and manage their systems efficiently and effectively. The session will focus on the elements of executive management that make directors successful.
Learning Objectives:
• Understanding the key attributes of becoming a great parks and recreation leader.
• Incorporating key learning skills that you can incorporate into your personal learning plan.
• Learning how to evaluate and improve your own skill sets to make you a stronger leader.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 128 - So You Want To Stay Out Of Jail?
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): John O'Driscoll, Partner, Tressler LLP; James Hess, Senior Counsel, Tressler LLP
Over the last couple of years, there have been some significant criminal trials of Illinois officials. This interactive presentation will examine the Gift Ban Act, Prohibited Political Activity, Conflicts of Interest, Whistleblower Protections, and Confidentiality of Closed Sessions.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand issues that can be pitfalls for the unwary.
• Gain best practice guidance for elected officials and senior staff.
• Leave with a renewed understanding of the do’s and don’ts surrounding the Gift Ban Act, Prohibited Political Activity, and Conflicts of Interest.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 132 - Your IMRF Benefits
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Meaghan Price, Member Education Counselor, IMRF; Morgan Johnson, Member Education Counselor, IMRF
Are you getting ready for retirement or do you just want to know more about your Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) benefits? This presentation will include information on IMRF participation and contributions and Voluntary Additional Contributions, as well as refund, disability, retirement, and death benefits.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about IMRF tiers, plans, and other must-know items for retirement planning.
• Gain insight into how a pension is calculated.
• Understand the benefits of contributing to the Voluntary Additional Contribution plan.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 18 - Psychological Safety—Your Leadership Reflection
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Laure Kosey, Executive Director, Oak Brook Park District; Elsa Fischer, Managing Consultant, Berry Dunn
Are you pushing your team towards high performance without taking care of their well-being? Is your staff “quietly quitting” or are you encouraging “work-life balance”? As a leader, make sure you are having conversations with your team so that they feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Join us for an honest discussion on workplace culture and how you can promote psychological safety.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how you can be a supportive leader when the status quo is challenged.
• Reframe failure and mistakes as safe opportunities for teaching moments.
• Establish an inclusive and respectful communication culture.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 205 - 2024 IDNR Grant Outlook and Success Grant Submission
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Michelle Kelly, Principal Landscape Architect, Upland Design Ltd; Ann Fletcher, Conservation Grant Administrator, Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Get strategic on your next Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) grant application to bring dollars to your next capital project! The IDNR awards millions of dollars for capital park projects each year with multiple grant programs. Join IDNR’s Ann Fletcher, Conservation Grant Administrator for the State of Illinois, and Upland Design’s Michelle Kelly, Principal Landscape Architect, in this session. You will learn about grant opportunities and the key components necessary for winning grant submissions. We will also review the grant outlook for 2024.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the 2024 grant outlook.
• Assign your capital projects to the right grant program.
• Learn the key elements for a successful grant submission.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 303 - Personal Finance for the Parks and Recreation Professional
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Randolph AB, East Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Carter Patton, Recreation Supervisor, Fox Valley Park District
We work hard everyday but are we seeing the fruits of our labor? In this session, you will learn some effective ways to budget and track your money. Learn how to build the life you really want and find how financial freedom can help jump-start it. We will discuss the Financial Independent Retire Early (FIRE) movement and how different retirement vehicles can impact retirement and early retirement. As parks and recreation professionals, we will discuss how IMRF or 403(b)s can affect our ability to save for retirement, as well as the possibilities for retiring early as a parks and recreation professional.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn effective ways of budgeting and money tracking.
• Understand how to calculate your FIRE number and the ways to achieve it.
• Learn how your unique retirement vehicles can impact your ability to retire early.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 402 - Trend Check for Rec
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Nikki Ginger, Senior Consultant, BerryDunn; Ron Schneider, Executive Director, Freeport Park District; Maureen McCarthy, Superintendent of Recreation, Park District of Oak Park; Chris Lindgren, Superintendent of Parks & Planning, ADA Coordinator, Park District of Oak Park
Come one, come all to learn about the creative ways in which your colleagues are innovating to respond to the latest trends. This roundtable discussion will start with a case study on specific hot topics, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Dead People, Furry Friends, Pot and Alcohol (you read right), and Wild Programming Ideas (sorry folks, pickleball is forbidden from this discussion). Then, we'll move into table discussions to talk about creative ideas and learn how to apply them to your district. Facilitators will be assigned to each table to keep the conversation flowing. We'll rotate topics throughout the session to give you a taste of everything.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about innovative and creative ideas emerging around the United States.
• Pick up tools and techniques to apply to your agency, district, or department.
• Have fun!
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 404 - The Power of Group Interviews for Summer Day Camp Staff
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Rebecca Perkaus, Recreation Supervisor, Alsip Park District; Meghan Fenlon, Superintendent of Recreation, Tinley Park Park District
Summer day camps are an important part of recreation professionals' programs, providing a fun and safe environment for children to learn, grow, and play. Hiring the right staff for these camps is critical for their success, and group interviews can be a valuable tool in the hiring process. In this presentation, we will discuss the benefits of group interviews and share the best practices for conducting them effectively. You will learn how group interviews can help you identify the best candidates for your summer day camp programs and improve your overall hiring process.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the best practices for conducting effective group interviews.
• Learn strategies for evaluating candidates during group interviews.
• Learn tips for creating a positive and engaging group interview experience for the candidates.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 407 - How to Make the Most Efficient Use of Event Space
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kevin Grothe, Vice President, Memphis in May International Festival
Has your event or festival space been reduced or resigned? Do you know how to determine the most effective use of space for your event? Reinventing your event due to space constraints is never easy and often time-consuming. If you are feeling the space crunch, learn from this case study of a major event that met the challenge (twice).
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how to analyze space needs and the impact on the event.
• Understand how to evaluate the top program elements of an event.
• Create new partnerships to achieve a common goal.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 606 - Aquatics Roundtable
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Alex Hartzell, Accounts Payable, St. Charles Park District; Alex Tagle, Recreation Supervisor, Village of Lincolnwood; Katie Dunn, Aquatics Manager, Elk Grove Park District; Deena Wrobbel, Recreation Supervisor, Butterfield Park District; Viktoria Orosz, Aquatics Program Manager, Fox Valley Park District
Join this interactive roundtable discussion that will cover topics ranging from aquatic operations, recruitment and training, programs and events, and more! The Aquatics Committee is located within the Facility Management Section and consists of a passionate group of parks and recreation professionals who specialize or work in aquatic facilities.
Learning Objectives:
• Network with other professionals.
• Discuss ideas and best practices related to aquatic operations, recruitment, and programs.
3:45 pm - 4:45 pm 906 - How NOT to be Boring with your Marketing Outreach Booth—25 Booth-Boosting Tips
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Lonna Converso, Director of Marketing and Communications, Bloomingdale Park District; Sandy Vangundy, Director of Recreation, Bloomingdale Park District; Aileen Morales, Marketing Assistant, Bloomingdale Park District
The key to a successful marketing outreach booth is preparation. For best results, you must know your audience, not to mention train your staff. Learn how to attract residents, potential customers, and current clients to your marketing booth when attending festivals, special events, industry meetings, and tradeshows. Take away 25 useful ideas and a list of reliable resources for creating an influential marketing booth that works for you. Learn how you can level up your booth with a fresh perspective on goals, customer service, set-up, giveaways, and professional appearance. Engage in a fun, interactive activity by organizing an inviting booth that effectively gets any message across to your audience!
Learning Objectives:
• Receive a resource sheet to take away with you.
• Learn how to effectively draw people to your booth.
• Learn some professional do’s and don'ts for visually creating an image of excellence.
Saturday 27 Jan 2024
10:30 am - 11:30 am 1008 - Promoting Vendor Diversity at Your Agency
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jaemie Neely, Executive Director, Federation of Women Contractors
This session aims to provide comprehensive insights into establishing and expanding a supplier diversity program within an agency. This presentation will delve into the relevant legislation, effective strategies, and valuable resources that can support the development of a robust and inclusive supplier network. By embracing diversity in vendor selection, agencies can foster economic growth, create opportunities for underrepresented communities, and drive innovation.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand supplier diversity, as well as supporting laws and regulations.
• Understand how to implement or grow a supplier diversity program.
• Understand how to leverage advocacy and affinity groups to expand networks.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 109 - Government Finance for Non-Finance Park and Recreation Leaders
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jason Myers, Director of Finance and Personnel, Arlington Heights Park District
This session is designed to equip board members and non-finance professionals with a practical and proven approach to explaining government finance. The topics covered will include tax levy, budget and appropriation, revenue and expenditure reporting, debt service and bonds, tax increment financing (TIF), and audit. You will gain the basic understanding required to succeed in your role.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the commonly used government finance terms.
• Acquire a solid base of knowledge about the budget and tax levy process.
• Gain an understanding of bonds and the role they play in government finances.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 1101 - "It's Dangerous to Go Alone! Take This!"—Gamification Marketing Strategies
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Caitlynn Martinez-McWhorter, Marketing Manager, McHenry County Conservation District; Renee Pixler, Communications Coordinator, Forest Preserves of Winnebago County; Kimberly Smith, Director of Marketing and Customer Care, Bolingbrook Park District
Gamification, or the use of common game elements like points and levels, is becoming increasingly popular in the fields of education, training, and marketing. With growing access to new technologies, gamification is no longer just an option for marketers of Fortune 500 companies, such as McDonald’s Monopoly Game, but now can be used by businesses and organizations of all sizes. By incentivizing particular actions, gamification can be used to encourage park use or even modify park user behaviors, all while creating an enjoyable and positive experience for our residents. Three agencies that use unique gamification strategies in their marketing and engagement efforts will share their experiences with recent campaigns. Learn the do’s and don'ts of creating a gamification strategy for your agency because "it’s dangerous to go alone! Take this!"
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about three specific campaigns using unique gamification strategies and follow them from inception to execution.
• Learn about the current technologies and methods for managing these types of campaigns, along with the benefits and challenges of each option.
• Learn how campaigns of this type can be scaled to work for agencies of various sizes.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 119 - Not in My Park! Regulating Controversial Park Activities
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Daniel Bolin, Partner, Ancel Glink, P.C.; Kurt Asprooth, Partner, Ancel Glink, P.C.; Megan Mack, Attorney, Ancel Glink, P.C.
Park agencies manage many acres of public space, where controversial activities may occasionally take place. What authority does your organization have to address protests, pickleball, and more? Find out at the 2024 IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference during the Not in My Park! session proudly presented by Ancel Glink’s Quorum Forum podcast with Kurt Asprooth, Megan Mack, and Dan Bolin!
Learning Objectives:
• Evaluate the First Amendment issues associated with protests in public spaces.
• Review the best practices and policies that park agencies use to manage public protests.
• Review statutory authority, case law, and enforcement challenges associated with noise ordinances.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 12 - Conflict Unpackaged
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall J, Gold/Ballroom Level, East Tower
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Annie Frisoli, Founder & CEO, Creating Community LLC
Often, when the topic of conflict arises, individuals begin to talk about the “other” person they are having conflict with. In this interactive session, we flip the conflict conversation back to you—the only person you can actually control in a conflict. You will learn to identify your own comfort level with conflict, gain insights into others’ perspectives of conflict, and discuss both active and passive paths to dealing with conflict within the workplace.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify key conflict triggers among most individuals.
• Recognize your own conflict comfort level and conflict behaviors and their impact on your organization.
• Compare active and passive responses to conflict in the workplace.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 122 - Affiliates—A Blessing or a Curse?
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Derke Price, Attorney, Ancel Glink; Scott Puma, Attorney, Ancel Glink
Affiliate organizations can play a vital role in the delivery of recreational programming; however, they come with unique challenges for the board and staff. This session will focus on the Affiliate Agreement and provide tips for establishing a better relationship between your agency and the affiliate groups.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn what affiliates can do for your district to help you fulfill your mission.
• Learn the essential components of an agreement with affiliate organizations.
• Learn some best practices for dealing with the most common issues that come with affiliate relationships.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 124 - Using Robert's Rules of Order in Your Meetings
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Christina Emmert, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, National Association of Parliamentarians
If you are an officer or a board member, it is important to understand how to use Robert's Rules of Order (RONR) during your meeting. The 12th edition of RONR is almost 700 pages long and can be difficult to navigate. Understanding how the book is laid out is an important step in helping your meetings run smoothly.
Disclaimer: This session will only address RONR and not laws such as the Open Meetings Act, which may alter the rules of meetings.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how RONR is organized.
• Gain familiarity with how rules are to be applied to motions that arise during a meeting.
• Learn what to do when motions come into conflict with each other.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 129 - Boardmanship I
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Steven Adams, Partner, Robbins Schwartz; Pat Miner, Attorney, Robbins Schwartz
This session provides comprehensive information that every commissioner needs in order to conduct effective, legal meetings, avoid illegal meetings, follow the best practices for special, closed, and emergency meetings, and comply with current public participation requirements, as well as observe important special voting rules, electronic participation laws, and the duties and limits of each officer's role.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how you can ensure lawful, efficient, and professional board meetings while avoiding common Open Meetings Act errors that could expose you to criminal and civil liability.
• Learn the do’s and don’ts of closing a meeting, communicating electronically with constituents, other commissioners, and staff, participating remotely, and making your meetings shorter and more effective.
• Learn about recent PAC opinions on common Open Meetings Act errors.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 204 - Celebration and Stewardship of Your Nature Preserve
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Amy Doll, Director, Friends of Illinois Nature Preserve; Matt Evans, President, Friends of IL Nature Preserves
Illinois Nature Preserves are more than just open spaces in your park system. These are special places that are preserved and protected from development in perpetuity by state law because of their irreplaceable natural features and biodiversity. In the age of invasive species and climate change, nature preserves need specialized care to maintain these vital cultural resources. The primary mission of Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves is to ensure that all Illinois Nature Preserves maintain their rare and unique plants, animals, and natural communities into the distant future. We believe in a hyperlocal, work–learn–lead approach to land stewardship. Learn how this approach can encourage powerful volunteer stewardship in your natural areas and result in greater constituency for the Nature Preserves and your park system as a whole.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn to recognize the value of nature preserves in your community
• Gain insight into how you can leverage the statewide celebration into an increase in volunteer stewardship and grant funding for the care of your nature preserve.
• Implement the work–learn–lead approach to stewardship for volunteer stewards in your nature preserves, including finding resources for training, tools, and recruiting additional volunteers in your communities.
• Learn how to develop practices at your agency that will encourage effective and empowered volunteer stewardship communities that will care for the important biodiversity in your natural areas.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 304 - Park and Recreation Compensation Survey—Get to Know This Valuable Resource
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Katie Sepe, Director of Human Resources, Naperville Park District; Kathryn O'Connor, Director, Compensation Services, HR Source
Offering fair and competitive compensation can attract great applicants and retain valuable employees, which is critical in a tight labor market at a time when fewer individuals are going into the parks and recreation industry as a profession. Thankfully, determining employee compensation doesn’t have to be frustrating. IPRA and HR Source have partnered to provide parks and recreation agencies with a robust resource. This session will focus on how to access, interpret, and apply the results of the recently released 2024 Park and Recreation Compensation Survey to help drive your organization forward and align your human resources and compensation administration with leading practices. This session is intended for human resources and employees at the director level who are responsible for compensation planning.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the role of the IPRA Salary Study Task Force Committee in the annual Park and Recreation Compensation Survey and the value of participation.
• Learn how to use the Park and Recreation Compensation Survey to benchmark jobs at your agency and stay competitive in the marketplace.
• Gain an understanding of leading compensation practices for both full-time and part-time workers, including how to compensate an employee within their pay range.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 410 - Designing Surveys to Obtain Usable Data
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Suite 5, Gold/Ballroom Level, East Tower
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Megan Owens, Associate Professor, Western Illinois University
Surveying constituencies can be a useful method for gathering data to enhance program and agency decision-making. The quality of data gathered corresponds to the consideration one gives to the proper design and administration of a survey for a target population. This session will provide guidance on overall survey formatting, question/answer choice design, and implementation strategies in order to obtain usable data.
Learning Objectives:
• Obtain a better understanding of survey formats and uses.
• Enhance your ability to format survey questions.
• Learn how to identify new approaches to implementing surveys at your agency.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 414 - Just be in the Room
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Tanita Cook-Nelson, Facilitator
In this session, we will explore how a higher awareness of individual personality can contribute to aligning personal interests and goal-setting. Identify specific strengths and areas of opportunity as a strategy to recognize individual expertise on the path to achieving consistency in goal-setting and overall productivity. Discover the value in challenging individual comfort levels while engaging in the exchange of information with other leaders.
Learning Objectives:
• Explore how a higher awareness of individual personality can contribute to aligning personal interests and goal-setting.
• Identify specific strengths and areas of opportunity as a strategy to recognize individual expertise on the path to achieving consistency in goal setting and overall productivity.
• Discover the value in challenging individual comfort levels while engaging in the exchange of information with other leaders.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 501 - Prioritizing Mental Health—Empowering Your Organization
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Lisa Santoria, HR Manager, WDSRA
In today's fast-paced and demanding work environments, maintaining good mental health is essential for both individuals and organizations to thrive. As an organization, taking proactive steps to prioritize mental health fosters a positive work culture and improves overall productivity and employee well-being. This session is designed to equip your team with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to create a supportive and mentally healthy workplace. This transformative training initiative aims to cultivate a culture that promotes mental well-being while reducing stigma and encouraging open dialogue about mental health challenges. Through a combination of interactive dialogue, group discussions, and practical exercises, you will gain valuable insights and skills to make mental health a top priority within your organization!
Learning Objectives:
• Understand mental health in the workplace and provide mental health first aid.
• Learn how to create a supportive work culture, which includes the availability of mental health resources.
• Learn how to build resilience and self-care.
10:30 am - 11:30 am 611 - Concession Stands—Pain or Profit?
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom C, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Suzanne Waghorne, Division Manager, Carol Stream Park District; Jane Maxey, Recreation Supervisor, Carol Stream Park District
Are you ordering candy and nachos and calling it a day? You might be missing out on an untapped source of revenue. Whether it be a ball field complex, pool, or recreation center, you can have profitable concessions. This session will equip you with the tools you need to make your concession stands successful. Their unseen value could bring you an obvious reward. Our knowledge can lead you to push through the pain and enjoy the profit.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how concession stands can be a profitable source of revenue.
• Understand how to curtail your menu to fit your market or clientele.
• Utilize your marketing department to create a unique brand.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 1004 - Keep It 100 Without Trippin', No Cap!
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Becky Lambert, Education Services Manager, McHenry County Conservation District
Five generations are currently contributing to the field of parks and recreation! This collection of generations makes today's work environment one of the most diverse. Generational groups often have differing expectations in the workplace, different preferred communication styles, and varied perspectives. Learning how to manage these individual generations can be the key to attracting and retaining team members. Let's explore the strengths, stereotypes, and motivations of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Xennials, Gen Y, and Gen Z. While generational grouping is largely dependent on birth year, some people may find that their ideology does not match that of their generation. In this session, we will look at factors that may influence generational grouping. After we have looked at the generations as broad categories, we will discuss the many benefits of having a multigenerational workforce, learn how to build bridges between the generations, and share suggestions for engaging all generations in your agency's mission. We will end our time together by utilizing the resources in the room to get a deeper understanding of generational differences and similarities.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the factors that influence generational grouping.
• Explore the general differences among the five generations in the workplace.
• Learn practical ways to attract and retain team members from each generation.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 1105 - Connect Your Public to Nature’s Recipe for Restoration
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Regency Ballroom D, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Susan Cross, Principal, Oak Savanna Communications; Jon Cross, Chief Conservationist, Oak Savanna Communications
Gardening with native plants is not just a passing fad. It is a critical step toward using biodiversity to reduce the negative impacts associated with climate change. Best of all? Park and rec districts can engage their own communities to localize and support this important effort in both public and private spaces. For Susan and Jon Cross, a publication co-authored by The Nature Conservancy and their local metroparks system ignited a mission to restore the rare habitat where they live—the Oak Openings Region, located in Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio. The Crosses have successfully restored 20 acres of rare woodland, sand barren, and wet prairie to provide a home for rare and state-listed species. Their recipe for restoration models how private landowners, no matter where they live, can join park and recreation systems to contribute to healthy environments, clean water, and the return of native species.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify at least two basic steps for eco-restoration.
• Outline at least one immediate and one future step you could take to inspire your communities or stakeholders to contribute to healthy environments and clean water.
• Discuss at least two reasons why private citizens and park districts must partner to ensure successful local conservation.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 117 - Having a Healthy and Prosperous Relationship with Your Executive Director
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Derke Price, Attorney, Ancel Glink
Based on 25 years of advising park boards, hear the do's and don'ts for a happy and functional relationship between the board and the Executive Director.
Learning Objectives:
• Understanding the respective roles of the Commissioner and Executive Director.
• Learn how to approach the decision about entering into a contract with the Executive Director.
• Get valuable tips for performance evaluation and change.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 120 - The Necessity of Video Surveillance in Parks and Facilities
Topic Track: Governance/Legal
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Megan Mack, Attorney, Ancel Glink; Kurt Asprooth, Partner, Ancel Glink
Today, video surveillance cameras are everywhere. What policies and procedures do park districts need to have in place before they start recording in parks and facilities? You will learn the best practices for utilizing video surveillance systems, the implications of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Local Records Act. We will provide updates on recent case law related to the use of video surveillance systems.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the potential benefits and legal implications of using video surveillance.
• Understand the need for a policy governing the use of video surveillance in your parks and facilities and the necessary components of that policy.
• Learn the best practices for implementing a video surveillance system in parks and facilities.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 125 - Frequently Asked Questions About Robert's Rules of Order at Meetings
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Christina Emmert, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, National Association of Parliamentarians
Often, questions arise during meetings about parliamentary procedure, the answers to which are usually found in Robert's Rules of Order. Find out the answers to some of these commonly asked questions.
Disclaimer: This session only addresses Robert's Rules and does not address laws such as the Open Meeting Act, which rank above RONR and may alter meeting rules.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn the answers to some common meeting questions.
• Understand where Robert's Rules fall in the context of rules that govern organizations.
• Know where to find more answers to questions outside of this session.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 130 - Boardmanship II
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Steven Adams, Partner, Robbins Schwartz; Pat Miner, Attorney, Robbins Schwartz
This session explores the often difficult legal and practical challenges of governing with a “rogue” commissioner, a divided board, and/or an angry public. We will address leadership principles, as well as the available legal and practical tools used to overcome challenges, restore board credibility, and grow professionalism. We will identify the traits of an exceptional board.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn legal and practical strategies for (i) managing commissioners who are actively opposing the majority; (ii) making progress with a divided board; and (iii) defusing an angry public.
• Learn strategies to build a more professional board, prioritize and deliver on important initiatives, and establish greater public credibility.
• Learn the essential guiding principles for local government leadership.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 133 - Commissioner Roundtable—The Importance of DEI at our Agencies, Part I
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tracey Crawford, Executive Director, Northwest Special Recreation Association; Oralethea Davenport, Irwin Center Manager, Homewood- Flossmoor Park District; Michelle Tuft, Executive Director, Skokie Park District; Mike Reid, Commissioner, Skokie Park District; Laure Kosey, Executive Director, Oak Brook Park District; Sharon Knitter, Commissioner, Oak Brook Park District; Michael McCarty, Executive Director, Glenview Park District; Dan Peterson, Commissioner, Glenview Park District
In this session, a group of commissioners and executive directors from some Champions for Change award-winning agencies will discuss topics related to the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at their park districts and in their communities. The panel will discuss the moment that kick-started their DEI journey, highlighting their frustrations, fears, and successes, and revealing how they found the proper balance.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn about the moments that kick-started the DEI journey from the Champions for Change panelists.
• Gain insight into the importance of addressing DEI challenges, strategies, and successes while reviewing agency policies, processes, and procedures.
• Generate ideas and strategies to share with your fellow board members and executive directors to further address DEI at your agency.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 135 - Legal and Economic Update—New Laws, Economic Trends, and Their Impact Financings for Park Projects
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kevin Heid, Managing Director, Stifel; Kyle Harding, Partner, Chapman and Cutler LLP
This session will give you updates on recent state legislation that have an impact on park projects. It will also give an economic update and discuss how this relates to financing costs. Recent interest rate trends and future forecasts will help you decide when to finance projects and determine the possible benefits or costs related to refinancing existing debt.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand how recent state legislation impacts the financing of projects.
• Learn about recent trends in the interest rate markets and how they could impact their future projects.
• Learn about options and opportunities related to refinancing current debt.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 15 - Leadership Games
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Katie Troline, Founder/CEO/Trainer, Gold Medal Force, LLC
This is a fun, fast-paced leadership session that will help you to question various areas of importance as a leader, reflect upon your leadership skills, and determine where you can shift and grow. You will be equipped with new tools to help you become the best leader you can be for yourself, your staff, and your community.
Learning Objectives:
• Strengthen your leadership skills through interactive activities.
• Improve your active listening and communication skills.
• Leave with ideas for activities that you can utilize with your own teams.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 19 - Strategic Leadership While Facing a Crisis
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jackie Iovinelli, Executive Director, Park District of Forest Park; Jeff Murphy, Superintendent of Business, Park District of Forest Park
Park events have become targets, forcing us to make difficult decisions. Your recreation management degree likely didn’t include a class on Snapchat surges, the creation of narratives on social media, the entry of weapons into our facilities, and customer entitlement. During a crisis, leadership often loses control over their ability to keep the staff and patrons safe. What are the tools needed to help guide leaders through these challenging situations? In this session, we will share the practical steps we took when we faced our own crises. We will describe our successes, the challenges we continue to face, and the actions we took to ensure that we were prepared for the next crisis.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn critical skills to help navigate a crisis.
• Learn how to be proactive in a reactive situation.
• Gain insight into the different types of crises that we are facing.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 202 - Tournaments—The Challenges and Rewards of Hosting Large-Scale Athletic Tournaments at Your Parks
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Regency Ballroom C, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Bob Johnson, Director of Parks and Planning, Oak Brook Park District; Mike Contreras, Superintendent of Recreation, Oak Brook Park District; Brian DeWolf, Recreation Manager, Oak Brook Park District
This session will focus on the positive and negative impacts of hosting large-scale soccer, lacrosse, and football tournaments in parks. While these events can be great revenue generators for an agency, they require substantial resources and coordination among staff from different departments. Do you have enough parking, restrooms, volunteers, and capacity to host a successful tournament? What will be the aftermath? Can your natural grass fields survive heavy use and recover in time for regular-season play? In this session, the team at Oak Brook Park District will share their experience with managing an ever-increasing number of tournaments over the last four years. Taking this step requires planning, collaboration, and communication among many departments, and having your PARKS team front and center is critical to event success.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn what it takes to host a large-scale tournament.
• Understand the importance of involving the parks department every step of the way.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 405 - Our Volunteers are Out of this World!
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Becca Krzyszkowski, Volunteer & Events Manager, Naperville Park District; Jackie Gonzalez, Superintendent of Recreation, Naperville Park District
The purpose of this session is to share the importance of volunteers in recreation programming and special events. We will discuss how you can create volunteer positions from scratch and recruit-retain-recognize volunteers, as well as the overall benefits of including volunteers in your programs or special events.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how you can start from scratch.
• Learn about the 3R's: recruit, retain, recognize.
• Understand the successful outcomes and benefits of having volunteers.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 408 - How to Plan an Event—Steps, Tips, and Checklists
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Regency Ballroom A, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kevin Grothe, Vice President, Memphis in May International Festival
Whether you are organizing a small meeting or orchestrating a large festival, event planning is a huge task. Every event, no matter how simple or complex, requires detailed planning. From establishing a budget to marketing your event, there are numerous components you need to consider. While no two events are exactly the same, the scope and complexity of the event plan will vary depending on the size of the event, but the fundamental challenges remain the same. So whether you are planning an event from scratch or revamping an existing event, you will not want to miss this session on event planning.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the steps necessary to plan an event.
• Examine the fundamental challenges involved in an event of any size.
• Understand the different roles and departments involved in organizing an event.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 506 - SRA Budgeting 101
Topic Track: Theraputic Recreation
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jerry Barton, Executive Director, NEDSRA
Whether you oversee the budgets for a program, department, or agency, you will leave this session with knowledge of the concepts necessary to plan and manage non-profit Special Recreation Association (SRA) budgets, no matter their size. Learn from a professional in the field who has overseen non-profit budgets at varying levels within his organizations. This session will include ways to view and address program fees, part-time wages, operations, capital, subsidies, and more. Budgeting skills, including future planning, receiving approval, and ongoing monitoring, are essential to advancing your career within an SRA.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the basic budgeting concepts within an SRA.
• Acquire the skills necessary to develop, implement, and manage an SRA budget.
• Learn the best practices for both presenting to and receiving budget approval from an agency’s board of directors.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 610 - Sustainable Aquatic Design and Delivery in an Unpredictable Construction Market
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jen Gerber, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships & Operations, Water Technology; Hank Moyers, Associate Principal, Confluence; Terry Berkbuegler, Sr. Principal / Sr. Vice President, Confluence
As aquatic and recreation professionals, we’re always examining the best way in which we can provide planning, design, engineering, and delivery for our owners. We want to see aquatic facilities that are completed on schedule and within a budget. We want to see aquatic facilities that are clean, safe, and well-guarded. Unfortunately, this is getting harder and harder! As leaders, we want to find ways to plan for potential challenges and address them early on. By understanding design decisions that will reduce staffing, as well as facilitating unique construction delivery methods and solutions that will keep the budget in check, we can all seek to be part of the solution for the future of aquatics.
Learning Objectives:
• Discuss and identify the challenges facing aquatic professionals in today's market.
• Identify design and engineering decisions that will impact user maintenance, operation, and staffing.
• Identify construction methodologies and procurement strategies that can reduce the total project cost and provide superior results for owners.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 903 - Marketing and Communications Roundtable 2.0
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Amy Seklecki, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement, Arlington Heights Park District
Join your fellow marketing and communications professionals for roundtable discussions on trending topics, such as sponsorship, photography/videography, hiring, emerging tech, digital and print communications, branding, and more. This session will provide an excellent opportunity to network with both new and familiar faces in the industry. If you can't attend this session, don't worry—you'll have another chance at Marketing and Communications Roundtable 2.0!
Learning Objectives:
• Meet and network with like-minded marketing professionals.
• Discuss the best practices in marketing and communications for the parks and recreation industry.
• Brainstorm new marketing initiatives and tailor them to your district.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 1003 - Is Your Park District Gay Enough?
Topic Track: Diversity
Location: Grand Hall L, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mary Liz Jayne, Recreation Program Manager, Wilmette Park District; Drew Kambach, Performing Arts Supervisor, Northbrook Park District
Rate your workplace on equality and inclusion in terms of LGBTQ+ policies. You will be able to identify where you can improve your policies in the areas of human resources, recreation, marketing, and facilities. Tie policy to procedure with an action plan to implement at your agency.
Learning Objectives:
• Rate how inclusive your existing policies are.
• Learn ways to adjust your existing policies to be more inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community.
• Create an action plan for improving your equity and inclusion rating.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 1104 - The Challenges of Prescribed Burning in Urban Areas of Illinois
Topic Track: Forest Preserve and Conservation
Location: Acapulco, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jay Johnson, Heritage Site Logistics Manager, Forest Preserve District of DuPage Co.; John McCabe, Director of Resource Management, Forest Preserves of Cook County
This session will cover the many challenges that land management agencies face when using prescribed fire as a land management tool in the urban areas of Illinois. Building off our presentation at the 2023 conference, this session will take you to the next level.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how DuPage County and Cook County Forest Preserves have worked hard to gain the trust of their neighbors, other agencies (local and state), and local fire departments through increased communication.
• Learn the basics of smoke management and how we can work with weather conditions to minimize their effects on our neighbors, roads, and crew members.
• Learn the basic firing techniques that we use to ensure the least impact on our surroundings.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 115 - The Importance of the Board Policy Manual—Why You Need One and What You Can Do With It
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Suite 5, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Scott Puma, Attorney, Ancel Glink
The Board Policy Manual is an excellent tool to guide the board on governance and procedures. This session will examine the best practices to be included in policies in the Manual, as well as how the Manual assists with decision-making for your agency. We will also examine ways to avoid being tied down by policies and procedures that stifle the process of getting business done. Additionally, we will discuss the need for reviewing and updating the Manual to address changing laws and conditions.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand why a Board Policy Manual is needed.
• Gain insight into the best practices for the Manual.
• Learn how to get the board's business done.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 134 - Commissioner Roundtable—The Importance of DEI at our Agencies, Part II
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall GH, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tracey Crawford, Executive Director, Northwest Special Recreation Association; Oralethea Davenport, Irwin Center Manager, Homewood- Flossmoor Park District; Michelle Tuft, Executive Director, Skokie Park District; Mike Reid, Commissioner, Skokie Park District; Laure Kosey, Executive Director, Oak Brook Park District; Sharon Knitter, Commissioner, Oak Brook Park District; Michael McCarty, Executive Director, Glenview Park District; Dan Peterson, Commissioner, Glenview Park District
This dynamic roundtable discussion will provide an opportunity for an engaging DEI Q&A session with panelists from three Champions for Change award-winning agencies that have successfully implemented DEI Initiatives for their community, acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all checklist. The discussion will involve significant sharing and collaboration among the facilitators, panelists, and you. Join us for this important opportunity to obtain useful information and dynamic takeaways. Don’t forget to bring your burning questions!
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how different communities have implemented DEI initiatives to meet the needs of staff and the communities they serve.
• Obtain tips and information to help your agency navigate DEI and address potential concerns.
• Participate in an energetic Q&A session that will help you kick-start your DEI journey at your agency, provide support as you advance to the next level, and help you implement new DEI strategies and initiatives.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 138 - Role of Board Members and Leadership in a Crisis
Topic Track: Boardmanship
Location: Grand Hall K, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jill Allread, APR, Fellow PRSA, CEO, Public Communications Inc; Jackie Rachev, Sr. Account Supervisor, Public Communications Inc
Park districts, special recreation organizations, conservation groups, and other municipal organizations and their officials are charged with acting in the public's interest. But what happens when a crisis arises? The leadership and board members should be prepared to address the issue with clarity, transparency, and accuracy. You will learn about the life cycle of a crisis, what steps to take, how to communicate effectively during a crisis, and the opportunities for strong leadership that arise during a crisis.
Learning Objectives:
• Identify the action steps to take during a crisis, including which staff members, board members, and other stakeholders to include in the crisis team, who should serve as spokesperson, the role of social media, and how to respond to calls.
• Determine if the agency is prepared to handle a crisis and the steps that need to be taken to strengthen the organization's procedures.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 16 - Q&A is the Best Way to National Certification Exam Success
Topic Track: Leadership/Management
Location: Grand Hall J, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Katie Troline, Founder/CEO/Trainer, Gold Medal Force, LLC; Duane Smith, Education Director, IPRA
The way to pass the Certified Park and Recreation Professional / Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRP/CPRE) exams is to (i) study the content; and (ii) PRACTICE ANSWERING QUESTIONS! Learn about the National Certification Exam requirements for both tests. We will then test your knowledge as you try to answer practice test questions. We will include some tips for success in this session. Come and challenge yourself! You may be surprised at how much you really do know!
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the requirements needed to sit for the national certification exams.
• Learn how to read and break down practice exam questions to help direct you to the right answers.
• Gain a better understanding of your knowledge base to better prepare for the exams.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 206 - The Future of Urban Forestry in Parks
Topic Track: Parks/Natural Resources
Location: Comiskey, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Steve Lane, Lead Urban Forestry Consultant, Great Lakes Urban Forestry
The face of urban forestry is changing in many ways! New ideas, new capital, and an explosion in the diversity of both people and tree species in our industry have brought about quite a renaissance that is still underway. In this session, we will take a deep dive into many topics, such as new species introductions, new technology that is used to track and manage tree benefits and risks, concerns with trees and insurers, leveraging trees with natural areas management, and more. Furthermore, funding has historically been available at the federal level to help shoulder the load when it comes to paying for these things, and we will spend a good amount of time discussing how to apply for that funding and put it to smart use. Join Steve as we discuss all things urban forestry in the parks and look to the future for inspiration in our planning and management of our tree populations for our patrons to enjoy for decades to come!
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the funding streams available for tree-related tasks.
• Engage with new software and technology available for managing trees.
• Identify future industry trends in arboriculture and urban forestry.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 307 - Evanston Lakefront—A New Chapter and Collaboration
Topic Track: HR/Risk Management
Location: Regency Ballroom B, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tim Carter, Division Manager, City Of Evanston; Audrey Thompson, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of Evanston; Matt Smith, Division Chief of Training and Special Operations, City of Evanston
In the summer of 2021, the City of Evanston was rocked with reports of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment among lakefront staff. The three new administrators, who had never opened beaches for the summer season before, let alone hired and trained dozens of lifeguards responsible for public safety at Evanston’s lakefront, in the wake of COVID-19 and the scandal. The department eventually learned how to regain the trust of our residents and lifeguard staff. In 2023, the Parks and Recreation Department partnered with the Evanston Fire Department, resulting in Evanston becoming the first municipality in Illinois to move its lifeguard program to the fire department. The goal here is to have the Evanston FD focus on life safety while the Parks and Recreation Department focuses on the programming of the beaches and lakefront. Together, both departments bring the resources necessary to plan and manage a successful lakefront. The Parks and Recreation Department plans to continue with this new partnership in 2024.
Learning Objectives:
• Learn how a parks and recreation agency can overcome a crisis.
• Learn how you can regain the trust of your residents and staff.
• Observe two departments leading the lakefront and aquatic operations instead of one.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 312 - What to Look for When Evaluating a Financing Proposal
Topic Track: Finance/Information Technology
Location: Water Tower, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tom Reedy, Managing Director, Stifel Public Finance; Anthony Miceli, Senior Vice President, Speer Financial, Inc
In this session, we will provide examples of financing proposals that may be presented to park districts and break down the key pieces of information and important questions to ask for each example.
Learning Objectives:
• Review borrowing options and limitations outlined in the statutes governing Illinois park districts.
• Learn how various borrowing alternatives available to park districts may impact future capital planning.
• Identify some key metrics to look for when evaluating refunding proposals.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 411 - Building a Positive Culture in your Summer Camp
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Gold Coast, West Tower, Bronze/Concourse Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Anna Schuld, KASPER Manager, Schaumburg Park District; Kimberly Barton, Superintendent of Recreation, Hoffman Estates Park District
What does a positive work culture look like to you? As the team leader, you have the highest impact on your camp’s culture. As managers and supervisors, it is your responsibility to train your summer staff to encourage collaboration and positivity throughout the camp. In this engaging and interactive workshop, we will explore strategies that promote the establishment of a supportive and collaborative work environment within your camp teams. We will provide a space to discuss what professionals are already doing to train summer staff, what has worked to motivate them, and the struggles that are often encountered in trying to get staff inspired, engaged, and motivated.
Learning Objectives:
• Understand the definition of a positive workplace culture and how a youth program can be transformed when you prioritize the well-being of employees.
• Apply effective strategies to revamp your training style for summer camp employees.
• Understand the importance of building a culture of collaboration.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 421 - The Future Is Inclusion
Topic Track: Recreation
Location: Grand Suite 3, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Colleen Cline, Recreation Coordinator, NEDSRA; Bethany Pastrana, Inclusion Manager, SEASPAR; Becky Fredrickson, Inclusion Manager, FVSRA; Jennifer Wisnewski, Inclusion Manager, FVSRA
The future of inclusion is upon us. Transform your perspective and learn strategies to create universally designed programs and spaces in the recreation setting. Whether it's in preschool, before- and after-care, summer day camp, variety, senior programs, and more, you will learn how to shift your thinking to build stronger and more adaptable environments that will cater to all participants, including those with disabilities. Join SRA Inclusion professionals as they talk about the current trends and processes that have made the concept of inclusion better among all recreation and SRA professionals.
Learning Objectives:
• Discuss strategies that can be used to align SRA and member district philosophy in the context of progressive interactive inclusion services.
• Learn essential elements that guide your agency in developing a framework for your programs that promote inclusive environments.
• Feel confident when discussing and training staff on inclusion processes and trends at your agency.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 603 - Healthy Communities, Parks, and Splashpads
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Regency Ballroom C, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Ryan Eccles, Sales Executive, Vortex Aquatic Structures International
Recently, the World Health Organization underscored the importance of community parks as they relate to family health. Acknowledging a rise in the obesity epidemic (along with many other chronic diseases), they stressed how a child’s environment significantly determines their overall well-being. Are today’s public parks up to the challenge? As demographics, inclusivity, and health concerns evolve, aging facilities need to step up their game to keep communities engaged and active. With this presentation, we’re exploring effective community infrastructure through the lens of aquatic play. We’ll discover how Splashpads increase park usage, promote inclusion, and build social capital that helps communities grow and flourish. To understand the winning recipe, we’ll delve into three tenets: (i) recognizing the critical role that parks play in promoting a healthy lifestyle for children and the associated challenges; (ii) understanding that a healthy community means making inclusion a priority, and breaking down accessibility, universality design, and inclusion; and (iii) how Splashpads lead to healthier communities by building social capital.
Learning Objectives:
• Analyze the factors that contribute to a park’s attractiveness and usage through different academic studies.
• Understand accessibility, universal design, and inclusive design approaches to Splashpad design.
• Learn how to apply an inclusive framework to Splashpad design.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 607 - To Game or Not To Game? Planning Successful eSports Programs and Spaces
Topic Track: Facilities
Location: Grand Hall I, East Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Tom Poulos, CEO, Williams Architects; Leon Younger, President, PROS Consulting
To game or not to game? That is a great question that needs careful consideration. eSports is so much more than just a computer and a chair. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to program eSports at your facility. This session will help guide you through what is required to bring eSports into your facility and make it successful. The right questions can help with planning measures that consider factors such as revenue generation, flexible space, spectators and spectator viewing, proper technology and storage, fitness and body analytics, and proper appointments. To game or not to game—we'll help you answer that question!
Learning Objectives:
• Determine if eSports are a right fit for your facility and agency.
• Learn how to ensure proper program criteria (at what scale and for what audience?)
• Understand the critical factors for a successful space.
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm 904 - Improving Customer Feedback Systems
Topic Track: Marketing/Communications
Location: Toronto, West Tower, Gold/Ballroom Level
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kimberly Smith, Director of Marketing and Customer Care, Bolingbrook Park District; Karin Ferenz, Founder, Principal, Customer Lifecycle, LLC
The world is changing rapidly and so are your residents. It is now more important than ever before to gather quality information and feedback from your residents in order to guide your decisions for the future. Many districts use community-wide surveys or other mechanisms for gathering feedback from their constituents. Gathering this data can be relatively easy but are you gathering the correct data and are you interpreting it correctly? This session will challenge you to review your current processes to ensure you are gaining a deeper understanding of your constituents.
Learning Objectives:
• Evaluate whether your current community feedback system is gathering the correct data or not.
• Acquire a thorough understanding of different feedback mechanisms and when to use them.
• Learn how to improve customer feedback systems utilizing focused planning, unbiased market research, and integrated deployment.