Mastering the Art of Influence

Speaker: Kristin Strunk President & Principal, Regent Leadership Group, LL

This session provides essential skills for effectively influencing both internal and external stakeholders. Participants will begin with an overview of stakeholder types, followed by techniques for building strong relationships, influencing diverse groups, and applying these strategies immediately. The session will cover how to differentiate between stakeholder needs, highlighting the distinct approaches required for internal versus external groups. Additionally, participants will develop tailored communication strategies to foster trust and credibility across various audiences. The session will conclude with influence techniques focused on building productive relationships, effective collaboration, and setting shared expectations to drive meaningful outcomes.

How Climate Change and Weather Extremes are Impacting Parks and Recreation

Speaker: Crystal Egger President & Meteorologist Monarch Weather + Climate Intelligence 

This session will explore how shifting climate patterns and extreme weather events are impacting park operations, programming, and facilities. We’ll discuss practical strategies for mitigating risks, ensuring public safety, and planning for long-term resilience. Whether managing events, budgeting for maintenance, or responding to emergencies, attendees will leave with actionable insights to navigate these growing challenges.

Developing SOPs: From Chaos to Clarity

Speaker: Rayne Gibson, Owner Taproots Horticulture Consulting

In an ever-changing future, see how Parks and Recreation needs to explore the seamless integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Artificial Intelligence (AI). This session will prioritize building a culture of inclusive innovation where agencies can intentionally leverage AI to revolutionize the way they do things in a way that leads to a more inclusive future for all. Join us in reimagining the limitless possibilities of DE+AI in Parks and Recreation! 

Real Experiences in an Artificial World

Speaker: Neelay Bhatt Founder & CEO Next Practice Partners, LLC.

In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, automation, and digital interactions, the essence of genuine human connection in customer service has never been more critical. This session explores how to deliver authentic, memorable experiences in a technology-driven environment. Attendees will learn how to balance digital tools with personal touches, using AI to enhance—not replace—the human element of service. Through real-world examples from Disney, the Olympics and other parks and recreation agencies, interactive discussions, and actionable strategies, participants will discover how to create impactful experiences that resonate with customers, even in an increasingly artificial world.

Recreation’s Role in Advancing Inclusivity for the LGBTQAI2S+ Community

Speakers: Tracey Crawford, CTRS, CPRP Executive Director,

Northwest Special Recreation Association Kris Johnson, MS, CTRS Associate Professor of Therapeutic Recreation Chair of Therapeutic Recreation and Autism Studies Associate Professor of Therapeutic Recreation Chair of Therapeutic Recreation and Autism Studies Aurora University

Park and recreational professionals can create inclusive environments where people are able to find a sense of belonging. Perhaps the newest frontier in the diversity, equity, and inclusion movement has been with the LGBTQAI2S+ community. This session will focus on current terminology, cultural humility, controversial issues impacting therapeutic recreation service delivery, and the role recreational therapists play in generating a welcoming environment. We’ll look at how overlapping social identities—such as race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability—intersect and create unique experiences of privilege and oppression. Participants will gain an understanding of cultural humility and its significance, explore two controversial issues currently affecting the LGBTQAI2S+ community, and learn two strategies for creating a more inclusive environment within recreation departments and programs. Attendees will learn to recognize and address systemic inequalities while advocating for more inclusive spaces.

How to Think Big in Parks and Recreation

Speaker: Chris Nunes, CPRE Chief Operating Officer The Woodlands Township (Texas)

Unlock new potential in this session designed to inspire a bold, expansive approach to community development. This engaging workshop empowers parks and recreation professionals to envision and implement impactful projects, groundbreaking programs, and innovative services that address evolving community needs. Participants will explore practical strategies for recognizing emerging opportunities, effectively utilizing resources, and building strong community partnerships. By the end, attendees will be equipped with

the skills and mindset to lead transformative initiatives that enhance the quality and accessibility of parks and recreation for all.

The Leader’s Guide to Mental Health and Resiliency

Speaker: Lori A. Hoffner Speaker, Trainer Consultant Supporting CommUnity

Stress is an inevitable part of life, whether at home, work, or play. This session focuses on helping individuals understand and manage their responses to stress by recognizing it is a normal reaction to challenging or abnormal situations. You’ll how to accept and navigate both the physical and emotional responses to stress, developing healthier coping mechanisms in the process. The session will also delve into the seven key tenets of personal and professional resilience, offering insights into how these principles can strengthen one's ability to thrive in the face of adversity. By fostering well-being and practicing self-care, attendees will be better equipped to lead, manage, coach, and serve as positive role models for their teams and communities.

Walk the Talk - Mindfulness and Wellbeing for Parks and Recreation Leaders

Speaker: Jodi Rudick

Teresa L. Penbrooke, PhD, CPRE, CMS, RYT-200 Executive Director, ActivEnviro

This webinar will introduce a Mindful Leadership Framework, designed to help balance organizational demands with personal well-being ultimately reducing internal and external conflict. Attendees will learn effective techniques for emotional regulation and time management, gaining valuable tools to lead their teams with resilience while enhancing their own professional and personal health. Participants will delve into the seven dimensions of health and discover practical strategies for personal growth, empowering them to create community systems where all residents can thrive. Tailored for park and recreation professionals looking to lead from a place of personal experience and empathy in order to better meet the needs of their communities.

High Road Leadership – How to Bring People Together in a Divided World

Speaker: Marie Knight, Owner, Knight Leadership Solutions

Join us for a dynamic workshop on the essential principles of transformative leadership. Based on the work of John Maxwell, you’ll learn how to unite people in a divided world, balancing self-confidence with humility while understanding your motivations to serve the greater good. We’ll explore the importance of generosity, accountability, and emotional resilience in

The Wisdom to Do Good Work – A Crash Course

Speaker: Jamie Sabbach, Founder, President & Principal 110%, Inc.

The best preparation for a good world tomorrow is to lead with courage and do good work today. And what does it mean to do good work in parks and recreation? It means focusing on the common good and less so on special interests. It means not compromising what exists at the expense of new stuff. It means leading with purpose and not being tempted by the flavor of the day. And it means creating advocates who will champion what is in the best interest of future generations. There’s wisdom in knowing all of this and more

The Courage to Be Unfair - Promoting Equity

Speaker: Farrell Buller Principal & Certified Leadership Coach 110%, Inc.

Often, inequity is the unintentional biproduct of decision making focused on short term satisfaction or making a special interest group happy and can often come at the expense of those who can go unnoticed or unheard. Good intention may not always be the equitable or “right” thing to do. As a parks and recreation professional, you influence your community each day by way of the choices you make. So, what is it that needs your influence to level the playing field for all who live in your community?