MRPA Young / New Professionals

The Michigan Recreation and Park Association is offering a new opportunity for industry professionals age 40 and under to gain essential skills that will take your career to the next level.  

The New Pros offers professional development through:

  Collaborative Experiences                             

  Networking & Volunteerism                  
 
  Leadership Development 
 

New Professionals Update:  December 2013

Thank you to everyone who shared insight and ideas for the MRPA Young Professionals, both through the survey and the webinar. Below is a recap of the outcomes that will be shaping the future of the organization:

  • The age limit of under-40 came into question several times. After much discussion, it has been decided that “New Professionals” or in the industry for less than seven years, would better serve the needs of the membership. Therefore, beginning at conference, the Young Professionals will become the New Professionals, open for all ages.
  • Most respondents were interested in professional development to help them prepare for their next position or succeed in the one they are in. Therefore, we plan to create both online and regionally-based professional development opportunities (and if you have topics you hope to see offered, please email your suggestions to or
  • Two one-day New Professional workshops are in planning stages – both in Lansing in mid-April and in Marquette in late September. If anyone is interested in assisting with the planning of these workshops, please email or
  • At the 2014 Conference, the New Professionals will endorse sessions that can help you get to where you want to be professionally. Look for the “NP” icon in your conference brochure.

View / download minutes from the December webinar.