BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT-ELECT (PRESIDENT IN 2028, PAST PRESIDENT IN 2029)

Justin Casperson, Director of Parks and Recreation
Marshfield Parks & Recreation Department, Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, practical, and focused on empowering others. I believe a leader’s responsibility is to establish a clear direction, bring the right people to the table, listen to different perspectives, and then give people the support and trust they need to be successful. I value open communication and accountability, but I also recognize that good ideas can come from anywhere within an organization. Throughout my career in Parks and Recreation, I have learned that leadership is rarely about one person having all the answers. It is about building relationships, creating opportunities for others to succeed, and being willing to make decisions when necessary. I try to lead by example and focus on finding practical solutions that move an organization forward.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring a strong focus on developing and connecting the next generation of Parks and Recreation professionals while continuing to engage the experienced professionals who have built our profession in Wisconsin. Workforce development and succession planning are increasingly important for our profession. WPRA has a tremendous opportunity to connect emerging professionals with experienced leaders through mentoring, networking, the Leadership Academy, conferences, the Foundation, and greater involvement in committees and Association leadership. I want to help create pathways for members to become more involved in WPRA, and build relationships with professionals throughout the state. At the same time, I believe we need to continue drawing upon the experience of our long-time members. Connecting those two groups strengthens WPRA and helps ensure that the knowledge, relationships, and leadership within our profession are carried forward. Ultimately, I want WPRA members to see the Association not simply as an organization they belong to, but as a professional network they can actively rely upon throughout their careers.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe the future of WPRA is very strong, but it will require us to continue evolving along with our profession. Parks and Recreation agencies are facing changing community expectations, workforce challenges, aging infrastructure, funding pressures, and rapidly changing technology. WPRA has an important role in helping professionals navigate those challenges together rather than individually. I see WPRA continuing to grow as a resource for professional development, advocacy, networking, and leadership development. We also have an opportunity to better connect professionals at every stage of their careers; from students and emerging professionals to directors and retired professionals, and make it easier to share the tremendous amount of knowledge and experience that exists throughout Wisconsin. Most importantly, I believe WPRA can continue strengthening the voice of parks and recreation. The services we provide have a significant impact on the health, quality of life, economic vitality, and overall strength of our communities. Our future should include doing an even better job of telling that story to elected officials, community leaders, and the public. If we continue to invest in our members, develop future leaders, embrace new ideas, and advocate for our profession, I believe WPRA will remain an essential resource for Parks and Recreation professionals throughout Wisconsin.

REGION I REPRESENTATIVE (BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2027-2028)

Kassandra Humke, Recreation Supervisor
Altoona Parks & Recreation Department, Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is a mixture of leading by example while also empowering my team to make decisions, try new things, and grow. I want my team to know that I trust their abilities, will support them when they need it, and will help them build the confidence to become stronger leaders themselves.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring energy and enthusiasm to this elected role which will hopefully help make people feel excited about being part of WPRA and Region 1.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA has been extremely important in my career so far and it continues to be important. I believe that WPRA will continue to provide amazing educational opportunities and networking opportunities that will continue to strengthen the Parks & Recreation field in Wisconsin.

Alex Fitzgerald, Recreation Superintendent
City of Sparta Parks and Recreation, Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my style of leadership as one of understanding and determination. I want to be able to lead others with positive and influential actions in order to be trusted and respected by peers and employees. There's nothing that I wouldn't ask of someone that I wouldn't do myself.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to be able to create an environment that we are able to collaborate for the greater good of the state's park and rec communities. We have lots of great minds that are spread out and often don't communicate enough to find solutions to common problems and that's something I want see us do more of together.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
The future of WPRA is headed in the right direction. From attending conferences and talking to multiple individuals there steps in place to really make us a unified group. For the state as a whole, I believe we are going to be a strong association as long as we continue to increase collaboration and help all departments show communities what parks and rec has to offer for everyone.

REGION III REPRESENTATIVE (BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2027-2028)

Sam Frederickson, Recreation Supervisor
DeForest Parks and Recreation, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is centered on supporting and empowering others. I believe people do their best work when they feel trusted, valued, and equipped to succeed. I strive to create a collaborative environment where members feel comfortable sharing ideas, taking ownership of their work, and contributing to shared goals. As a leader, I focus on building strong relationships, removing obstacles, encouraging professional growth, and helping individuals leverage their strengths while working together as a team.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to continue serving Region III and the WPRA by helping others, fostering meaningful connections, and bringing professionals together within and beyond our region. My goal is to strengthen collaboration, support our members, and contribute to the continued success of the association as a whole

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe the future is very bright for WPRA. Each year we continue to see record attendance at our annual conference, strong engagement at regional meetings, and tremendous creativity from our sections and committees. Members are thinking outside the box and developing a wide variety of training and professional development opportunities that meet evolving needs. These trends demonstrate not only the strength of our organization today, but also its capacity to grow and adapt in the years ahead. As member involvement and innovation continue to expand, I expect WPRA will remain a valuable resource for professionals across the state and continue finding new ways to connect, educate, and support its members.

AQUATICS SECTION 

CHAIR-ELECT (CHAIR IN 2028, PAST CHAIR IN 2029)

Morgan Zakrzewski, Recreation Supervisor
Greenfield Parks and Recreation, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I’ve always modeled my leadership style from my own mentors – leading by example, with positivity and encouragement. With my past four years of experience on the Aquatic Section, I’ve seen the teamwork and camaraderie that’s developed as we’ve expanded educational opportunities and taken steps to strengthen the Wisconsin aquatic community. As Chair-Elect, I would continue to support those in the Aquatic Section by advocating for the ideas of others and being a central support for the WPRA aquatic community.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Being an aquatic professional comes with many unique challenges that can be daunting to face alone. In this role, I hope to continue to expand the knowledge and resources that the Aquatic Section holds for our members and that other aquatic professionals across the state can turn to for assistance and guidance. From expanding the Water Safety webpage to exploring an Aquatic Training resource library, these are all discussions that have been held within the Aquatic Section that I would like to foster moving forward.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA has put a lot of time and effort into finding out how the Association can better serve its members. I believe through introducing new programs or enhancing current services the membership finds useful, WPRA will see a more active and energized membership base that will be excited to serve and further promote the Association.

REGION I REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Daniel Schmid, Recreation/Trail Coordinator
Wausau and Marathon County Parks, Recreation and Forestry, Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I prefer a blended perspective towards leadership. My previous experience in hospitality meant that I was working alongside my staff, showing them that I wanted to help create a good outcome. As I progressed in my management roles, I learned a valuable lesson that often times the best manager's efforts are not seen by their staff. Doing the front end work behind the scenes ensures that your staff is set up for success. This also helps create a calm environment, where staff have the resources they need, leading to less frustration or errors. I am of course, still willing and able to jump in beside them to help create positive outcomes. Working with young people has also taught me how to lead with caring and compassion. We often hire young people for their first job and I want to ensure that they have a positive experience, but also learn how to have a proactive relationship with future managers. Or even show them an example of good leadership if they ever find themselves in that position. On the flip side, I've also learned that you need to be fair, but firm when dealing with problems as they arise. Being consistent and practical in decisions helps to create a safe environment for all staff members. Beyond all that, being open to learning and welcoming new perspectives means that I don't remain static in my management style.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Outside perspective from my time in private industry and previous non-profit work. I worked in Hospitality and Event Management for many years. I've found that many people who work in the Parks and Recreation Field, have always worked in that field since they earned their degrees. Sometimes outside perspectives can help progress.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel that it is a strong organization and have watched the group's progress during my time in Parks and Recreation. Attending the conference twice allowed me to see the energy firsthand and now I am excited to attend the Leadership Academy this year and next. I think WPRA offers it's members important educational opportunities while still keeping things fun.

REGION III REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Kane Browskowski, Parks & Recreation Director
Village of Cross Plains, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My experience as an educator has shaped a leadership style centered on relationships, collaboration, and adaptability. In both Columbus and Cross Plains, I have found that strong teams begin with strong relationships. I make an effort to know team members as people and show interest in their lives. I value collaboration and want everyone to feel comfortable sharing ideas, contributing to projects, and relying on one another to accomplish individual and shared goals. I also recognize that mistakes happen and plans sometimes change. As a leader, I believe in approaching those situations positively, adapting when needed, and helping the team learn and move forward.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to strengthen connections with aquatic professionals in smaller and geographically isolated communities. During my time in Columbus, I sometimes felt that distance created a barrier to involvement with Badger Aquatics Professionals. My background in swim team coaching, aquatic management, and chemical maintenance helped me connect with professionals in the greater Madison area, and those relationships contributed significantly to my growth. Without making that effort to connect, my opportunities to exchange ideas and learn from others would have been more limited. In this role, I would like to expand outreach so professionals in these communities have greater access to education on safety standards, mechanical maintenance, and operational practices. Above all, I want them to feel connected to an aquatic community where they can ask questions, share experiences, and support one another.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe WPRA will face some challenges in the future as communities balance larger financial pressures with the demand for quality parks, recreation, and aquatic services. Concerns in Wisconsin about taxes, limited budgets, and levy limits make it increasingly important for professionals to demonstrate the value of their programs and make thoughtful decisions about resources.Professionals have already shown creativity and adaptability by adjusting staffing and programming, developing opportunities for multiple generations, and responding to changing community needs. WPRA can build on those efforts by offering more focused educational sessions and practical workshops on grant writing, budgeting, and long-term planning. Strengthening these skills would help professionals, particularly those in smaller communities, sustain essential services and plan confidently for the future.

REPRESENTATIVE AT-LARGE (2027-2028) *2 Positions Available

Elaena Noffsinger, Owner/Operator
Streamline Swim Academy, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I tend to lead through critical thinking and example. Nothing is impossible if we put the proper system in place. I work to create environments where others feel comfortable to be themselves and show off what they also can bring to the table.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Showing that anyone can serve and everyone is welcome in WPRA

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Continued promotion of aquatics throughout the state.

David Herrmann, Recreation Program Manager
City of Kaukauna, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as leading by example and working closely with my team. I believe in treating my staff with respect, communicating openly, and creating an environment where everyone feels supported. I don’t talk down to my team. I work alongside them, help them grow and improve, and give them the tools and support they need to be successful.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I would bring to this elected role is my experience and perspective from working in aquatics in different capacities. I’ve worked as an Aquatics Coordinator for a YMCA, and I currently manage a pool during the summer for the City of Kaukauna. These experiences have given me a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to manage and operate a pool successfully. I work well with others and would bring a collaborative approach, especially when working with others in the aquatics community to find solutions and improve our programs.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Having worked in Parks and Recreation for the past two years, I’ve seen firsthand how valuable WPRA is when it comes to networking, professional development, and supporting others in the field. I see a bright future for WPRA, with continued growth and new opportunities for professionals at all stages of their careers. I also hope WPRA continues to advocate for the importance of recreation and its positive impact on the lives of people and communities across Wisconsin.

Michaela Rosga, Aquatic Program Director
Stoughton Area School District, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, supportive, and growth-focused. I believe strong leadership starts with listening to others, building relationships and creating opportunities for people to share their ideas and perspectives. I enjoy bringing people together, learning from others, and helping turn ideas into action. As a leader, I also value clear communication and accountability. I am willing to step up and take initiative while still making sure others feel heard and included. I am always looking for ways to grow professionally, support those around me and improve the programs and communities I am part of. I believe leadership is not just about directing others, but about being a resource, advocate and active member of the team.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I want to bring to this role is a strong sense of connection and collaboration within the aquatics community. I want to help create more opportunities for aquatic professionals to share ideas, resources, challenges, and successes with one another. Aquatics can look very different from one community to the next, and I believe we can learn a lot from each other's experiences. I hope to be someone who listens to members, brings new ideas to the table, and helps aquatic professionals throughout Wisconsin feel connected and supported by WPRA.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel the future of WPRA is full of opportunities for growth, connection and innovation. As this field continues to change, WPRA can play an important role in helping professional adapt by providing education, resources, networking and opportunities to learn from one another. I also see an opportunity to continue engaging newer professionals and encouraging them to become involved in WPRA early in their careers. By bringing together both experienced and emerging professionals, I believe WPRA can continue building a strong community that supports the future of parks, recreation and aquatics throughout Wisconsin.

Krystal Ganz, Aquatic Program Manager
Milwaukee County Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I am a leader who empowers staff to be confident and independent while promoting a culture of teamwork. I encourage my team to take initiative with their roles while supporting one another working together to achieve both individual and organizational goals.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Bring professionals together to collaborate, share best practices, and strengthen programming including water safety. By connecting professionals and encouraging the exchange of ideas, we can strengthen staff training, professional development, and the overall quality of services we provide.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see the WPRA continuing to grow by bringing more professionals together, giving members a stronger voice in the organization. By encouraging collaboration, sharing ideas, and involving professionals from diverse areas, we can continue to grow and better serve our communities.

Chelsea Moberg, Recreation Supervisor
City of De Pere, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
Democratic - I lean towards inviting input from those I am leading and gaining buy in from them before moving forward whenever possible.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Launching a Virtual Lifeguard Competition for the entire state. We have the plans laid out at the committee level, but haven't had someone willing to launch it.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Continued growth and updates. WPRA has been growing as an organization with record numbers of attendance at conference, held a variety of new events held for members such as quarterly section round tables, and overall has been streamlining processes at all levels. I feel growth will continue powered by the passionate WPRA team and volunteers. Within the aquatics section, I can see sub committees changing to meet current needs, expansion of outreach for members in less served areas, and more targeted communication to members about upcoming opportunities for connection.

PARK SECTION

CHAIR-ELECT - 2027 (CHAIR IN 2028, PAST CHAIR IN 2029)

Holly Femal, Community Enrichment Director
Village of Kimberly, Region II 

REGION II REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Ashton Zeien, Parks and Recreation Director
City of Ripon, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe myself as a collaborative and community focused leader. I like to be involved, listen to the people around me, and work with others to find solutions that benefit the community. I try to lead by example and am not afraid to get involved and do the work alongside our team. As a younger department, a lot of my leadership has involved building relationships, creating new opportunities, and figuring things out as we go. I am still growing as a leader, but I try to be approachable, dependable, and open to learning from the people around me.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring my own experiences, ideas, and perspective to the position while also being willing to listen and learn from other communities. I would like to be an active representative who brings ideas and experiences from Region 2 to WPRA, while also bringing information, resources, and opportunities back to our region. I also want to help create more opportunities for parks and recreation professionals to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another. A lot of my own growth in my position has come from learning from other professionals and communities, and I would like to help provide those same opportunities for others.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel the future of WPRA is in continuing to connect parks and recreation professionals across Wisconsin and creating opportunities for communities to learn from one another. As the needs of our communities continue to change, I think there will be even more value in sharing ideas, experiences, and resources with each other. I hope WPRA continues to be a strong resource for professionals at all levels and provides opportunities for people to grow, build relationships, and bring new ideas back to their communities.

REPRESENTATIVE AT LARGE (2027-2028)

Adam Breest, Director of Parks & Expo
Winnebago County Parks Department, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I like to lead by example. I cannot just sit in an office all day. I like to go out to the project sites, check in on staff to see if I can help with anything, and figure out ways to get the work done more efficiently. I also encourage my staff to utilize their creativity and find new ways to accomplish things.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I would like to get back into a role with the WPRA because I have always enjoyed helping try to make the organization better. I previously was on the Young Professional Network when it was created. I was also the chair of that position. I also was on a conference committee and a Rec Section representative. It requires active members to help make a difference :).

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
With the ever changing landscape of government positions and budgets I feel WPRA plays an important role in the future of continuing to advocate for parks.

RECREATION SECTION

CHAIR-ELECT – 2027 (CHAIR IN 2028, PAST CHAIR IN 2029)

Brooke Franseen, Community Engagement Director
Clinton Community School District, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is collaborative, approachable, and service-oriented. I believe the best ideas come from listening to others, building relationships, and creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their perspectives. I enjoy bringing people together around a common goal and encouraging innovation.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring energy and a genuine passion for supporting WPRA members. I believe one of the greatest strengths of our profession is learning from one another, and I hope to help create meaningful professional development opportunities, encourage networking across the state, and ensure members feel connected and supported. Whether someone is new to the field or a seasoned professional, I want them to see the Recreation Section as a valuable resource that inspires new ideas and helps them grow in their careers.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe WPRA has an exciting future as parks and recreation professionals continue to expand their impact on the communities they serve. Our field is evolving beyond traditional recreation to include community engagement, wellness, lifelong learning, and creating meaningful connections for people of all ages. As those needs continue to grow, WPRA is well positioned to lead through high-quality professional development, collaboration, and advocacy.

SECRETARY/TREASURER BOARD POSITION (2027-2028)

Adrienne Lacy, Recreation Superintendent
City of Marinette Recreation Department, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My style of leadership can be best described as democratic. Especially when it comes to the WPRA Board and roles, I feel like it is important to include the membership in decision making. By gathering information and opinions of the membership, I believe the best decisions can be made for the good of the membership. Working in such a customer facing profession, I feel like consensus building is important. At the same time, when a decision needs to be made, it is important to be clear and concise and make the decision that is the best for the membership as a whole.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Like many, I have a lot of years of experience in various roles in different size departments and areas. I think one thing that has defined my career is my passion for knowledge and my want to better myself through learning. Whether that be by taking on new roles in my organization, at the state or national level, or by teaching college courses, I am constantly trying to learn and bring that back to whatever other roles I am serving.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Since joining the Board two years ago, I have seen WPRA go in a direction that is exciting and dynamic. I think WPRA is heading in the right direction and becoming a go to resource for the Parks and Recreation professionals in Wisconsin. By being diligent with our funds and resources, WPRA is going to be able to continue to bring resources to the membership. As part of the current Board, we are trying to reach every part of our state, and I think this will continue and can only help WPRA be better.

Reese O'Malley, Recreation & Community Enrichment Director
Village of DeForest, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, approachable, and focused on getting things done. I like to listen to different perspectives and make sure people feel heard, but I also believe in making decisions and moving things forward. I try to lead by example and create an environment where people feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and challenging the status quo. I also believe leadership is about recognizing that everyone brings different strengths to the table and finding ways to use those strengths to make the group better.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring energy, an open mind and past experience of being on the WPRA Board and Recreation Section. It is always better to be part of the solution than part of the problem.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe WPRA has a challenge ahead of it. We have a number of great leaders in our field who are reaching retirement age, while at the same time, it seems like Parks and Recreation programs at the college and university level are dwindling. That creates a real question for our profession: How do we continue to attract and encourage the next generation to choose parks and recreation as a career?I think we need to be proactive about this before it becomes a crisis. We need to do a better job of telling our story and showing students what a career in parks and recreation can actually look like. There are so many opportunities within our field, from programming and community engagement to parks, facilities, events, aquatics, administration, leadership, and so much more.I think WPRA has an important role to play in promoting the profession, creating connections between current professionals and students, providing mentorship opportunities, and helping young professionals see that this can be a rewarding and meaningful career.The future of WPRA, in my opinion, is going to depend on our ability to not only support the professionals we have today, but also invest in and inspire the professionals who will lead our field tomorrow. I would like to be part of that conversation and help make sure we are addressing the workforce and leadership pipeline now, rather than waiting until it becomes a crisis.

REGION II REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Terri Vosters, Community Enrichment and Recreation Director
City of Kaukauna, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is mentoring/coaching. I try to have an open door and enable success and development of each team member.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
The ability to assist with communication between all regions, sections and members of WPRA.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Assisting current and new leaders in sustainable funding, connectivity, engagement and new types of resources for young professionals.

Troy Schoblaske, Program Supervisor
Oshkosh Recreation Department, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
Having a balance between democratic and pacesetting styles. I enjoy working as a referee for my sports programs, but prefer to empower my young staff to gain experience and become better with the experiences and knowledge I have.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Having the availability to problem solve questions and issues we have within the WPRA network. I'd like to help facilitate any issues amongst peers so we can get answers to questions when needed.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see lots of positives including good attendance at the annual conference and a willingness to volunteer within the WPRA. Lets continue to do both and keep providing quality programs and services to our communities.

Elizabeth Konrath, Recreation Supervisor
Appleton Parks and Recreation, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is rooted in service, teamwork, and a healthy dose of fun. I served in the military for more than 21 years and have also worked as a physical education teacher, fitness director, and now a Recreation Supervisor with Appleton Parks and Recreation for the past 9 years. Each role has reinforced something I feel strongly: I am meant to serve others.I enjoy helping people recognize their strengths and grow in confidence. As a supervisor, I look for ways to support my staff, share what I’ve learned, and give them opportunities to lead. I believe the best leaders empower others, and that a team with many voices brings more creative ideas and stronger results.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I would bring creative energy to this role. I enjoy working with others to think outside the box, spot emerging recreation trends, and turn good ideas into valuable opportunities for our members, whether that means a timely conversation at a regional meeting or a relevant speaker at a conference.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see WPRA playing an important role in growing the future of our profession. We need to help more people discover careers in parks and recreation and show them the many paths they can take.I also want to be part of the work of bringing relevant, engaging speakers to WPRA conferences. Having served on the conference committee in the past, I know how much thought goes into selecting sessions. I would love to help identify emerging topics and speakers who leave members with practical tools, fresh ideas, and connections they can use to create even better recreation experiences in their communities.

 REGION IV REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Mikayla Cancilla, Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Greenfield Parks and Recreation, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is collaborative, people-centered, and accountable. I value open communication, teamwork, and making sure staff feel supported and heard. I strive to lead by example, stay organized, take ownership of my responsibilities, and make thoughtful decisions that benefit both our team and the community. I also believe in continually learning, seeking input when needed, and growing more confident in my own leadership along the way.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring a voice that is approachable, supportive, and willing to listen. I’d like to represent the needs of Region IV, share ideas and experiences, and help connect people within our profession. I think we all learn from each other, and I’d like to help create more opportunities for that.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I think the future of WPRA is about continuing to grow and adapt with our profession. There are so many changes happening in parks and recreation, and I think WPRA has an opportunity to continue connecting professionals, sharing ideas, and providing resources and education. I also think there is a great opportunity to bring more young professionals into the organization and help develop the next generation of parks and recreation leaders.

SCHOOL DISTRICT DEPARTMENTS REPRESENTATIVE (2027-2028)

Ted Martin, Director of Recreation
Wauwatosa Recreation Department, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as people-centered, curious, and grounded in high expectations. I try to lead with empathy and assume positive intent, while also being clear about what our team and the people we serve deserve from us.I believe a leader’s job is not to have all the answers, but to ask good questions, listen well, remove barriers, and help people do their best work. I value being present, being approachable, and creating an environment where people feel safe sharing ideas, concerns, and even mistakes. At the same time, I believe caring about people also means being willing to have honest conversations and hold ourselves accountable.I probably think of myself as a “warm demander.” I want people to know I care deeply about them, and because I care, I am also going to challenge them to grow. I try to stay curious rather than judgmental, make the best decision I can with the information available, and then be willing to learn and adjust when we know more.Ultimately, I want the people I work with to feel valued, trusted, and supported, while also knowing that the work we do matters and that we owe our community our very best.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I hope to bring to this role is the perspective of someone who has spent a lot of time on both sides of school-based recreation. Before moving into recreation, I was a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, so I understand how schools operate and what principals, teachers, students, and families are navigating every day.Now, working in recreation, I get to see how much opportunity there is when schools and recreation departments truly work together. I think that combination of experiences gives me a little different lens. I understand the challenges that can come with facilities, schedules, communication, competing needs, and limited resources, but I also know how much is possible when we stop working in silos.I would hope to bring that perspective to the role while also learning from other school-based recreation professionals and helping us share ideas, problems, and solutions with one another.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I think the future of WPRA is continuing to grow as a place where every recreation professional can find meaningful professional development, no matter their role, experience level, or where they work.One of the things I have learned pretty quickly coming into this field is how much knowledge already exists within the people doing this work every day. I think WPRA has an opportunity to keep creating spaces where people can learn from one another, share what is working, talk honestly about what is challenging, and build relationships across departments and communities.For me, the future is not just about conferences or formal trainings. It is about making professional development accessible throughout the year and making sure there is something for everyone, from someone newish to the profession to someone who has been doing this for 25 years.I think if WPRA can continue to connect people, develop leaders, and make learning feel relevant to the work people are actually doing, the organization will continue to be incredibly valuable to the profession.

Jessica Cady-Bartholomew, Supervisor Community Programs
Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR), Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, approachable, and focused on bringing people together. I believe good leadership starts with listening, followed closely by understanding different perspectives, identifying common goals, and working together toward practical solutions. As a School District Representative, I would want people to feel heard and know that their time, ideas, and concerns are valued. My goal is to be dependable, help turn good ideas into action and have some fun along the way.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I would bring a strong connection to the school community and a commitment to building meaningful partnerships between the school districts, and the broader community. I see this role as an opportunity to ensure the unique perspectives and needs of our schools and school communities are represented while creating a space to share resources, ideas, and expertise in the field of recreation. I would hope to help strengthen collaboration across these groups, identify opportunities where we can support one another, and ultimately create greater value and impact for our students, families, and community.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see a lot of opportunity for WPRA to continue growing as a leader and voice for parks and recreation across our state. As communities change, it is increasingly important that the value of parks and recreation remains visible and recognized as an essential part of healthy, connected communities. I also believe it is critical that WPRA has a strong presence in our school communities and continues to build awareness of the role recreation plays in supporting children, families, and communities. I see an opportunity for WPRA to strengthen connections among professionals and organizations, create more opportunities to learn from one another, and share the impact that parks and recreation have on the people and communities we serve. I would hope to contribute to that work by helping WPRA remain a strong, collaborative, and visible voice for parks and recreation in Wisconsin.