WRPA Committee Directory

Thank you for your interest in WRPA Committees!

WRPA is membership-driven – we achieve only what we ourselves commit to doing. By sharing your energy and expertise, you will make WRPA an even more effective professional resource. In fact, without you, we would not be able to offer any programs! As a volunteer, you will help us plan and implement projects, collaborate with members from other parks & recreation departments, have some fun, and sometimes gain inside information.

Awards Task Force

The Awards Task Force offers a strong entry point for individuals interested in volunteering with WRPA. Convening annually, this group is responsible for reviewing submissions and selecting recipients across project, program, and individual award categories. Led by the Past President, participation typically requires an estimated 5–7 hours of service.

CHAIR:  Jennifer Burbidge, City of Lacey

Board Nominations Task Force

The Board Nominations Task Force provides an opportunity to support the leadership pipeline within WRPA. This group convenes annually to review candidate applications and confirm eligibility based on established criteria and qualifications. Led by the Past President, participation typically requires an estimated 2-3 hours of service

CHAIR:  Jennifer Burbidge, City of Lacey

Conference Committee

The Conference Committee is one of WRPA’s largest and most active committees, supporting the planning and execution of the Annual Conference & Tradeshow. This group works in partnership with the WRPA Office to shape the conference’s goals and overall structure, develop the theme and branding, coordinate social and extracurricular activities, and help enhance the overall attendee experience.

The Annual Conference & Tradeshow brings together 500+ professionals for 2–3 days of education, training, and networking, typically held in the spring. Conference Chair(s) are comprised of representatives from the host city. Participation generally requires 3-6 hours per month, depending on assigned responsibilities.

CHAIR:

Continuing Education Committee (CEC)

The Conference Education Committee (CEC) plays a key role in shaping WRPA’s professional development offerings, particularly for the Annual Conference and other training programs. This group is responsible for reviewing and evaluating session proposals, ensuring content aligns with the diverse educational needs of WRPA members, and supporting the selection of high-quality presenters and relevant topics. 

The committee works to deliver a well-rounded educational program that serves professionals at all career levels and across a wide range of disciplines within parks and recreation. In addition, the CEC helps ensure sessions meet standards for continuing education and professional growth.

Participation offers an opportunity to influence the learning experience of WRPA members while staying closely connected to emerging trends, best practices, and innovative ideas within the profession. Participation typically requires 3–6 hours per month, depending on the time of year and proposal review cycle.

CO-CHAIRS:  Joanna Martin, City of Battleground & Jennifer Papich, City of Spokane

Equity, Inclusion, Belonging Committee

The Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (EIB) Committee supports WRPA’s ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive, accessible, and equitable parks and recreation profession. This committee works to elevate equity-centered practices across the association by reviewing resources, providing input on initiatives, and helping ensure WRPA programs reflect and serve the diverse communities of Washington.

Please note: the EIB Committee structure and focus are currently undergoing a review and potential restructuring process. As a result, responsibilities and scope may be refined as part of this ongoing work to better align with WRPA’s strategic priorities.

Fall Training

The Fall Training Committee supports the planning of WRPA’s one-day training event by assisting with speaker selection and coordinating a lunchtime activity that enhances attendee engagement and networking. This opportunity offers a focused way to contribute to a high-quality educational experience for WRPA members. The Fall Training focuses on Park Professionals and Leadership. Participation in this committee is about 1-3 hours a month, leading up to the event. 

CHAIR:  Joanna Martin, City of Battlegound

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee provides oversight and guidance on WRPA’s financial health and long-term fiscal sustainability. This group is responsible for reviewing monthly financial statements, monitoring revenue and expenditures, and ensuring alignment with approved budgets and organizational priorities. In addition, the committee may evaluate and engage in discussions related to investment opportunities and ongoing portfolio performance monitoring to support responsible stewardship of WRPA resources. Participation in this committee generally requires 10-15 hours per year.

CHAIR:  Colin Walker, City of Bellevue

Legislative Committee

The Legislative Committee advances WRPA’s advocacy efforts by helping shape and support the organization’s annual legislative agenda and priorities. This group works closely with WRPA’s contracted lobbyist on retainer to stay informed on key policy issues, monitor legislation impacting parks and recreation, and help guide strategic advocacy responses.

A core function of the committee is supporting the planning and execution of Legislative Day in Olympia, helping coordinate member engagement, communication, and participation to ensure a strong, unified presence. The committee also assists in reviewing updates from the legislative session and helps mobilize members when action is needed on priority issues. Participation in this committee is 2-5 hours per month.

CO-CHAIRS:  Jill Meis, City of Lake Stevens & Hunter George, Parks Tacoma

Marketing & Communications Committee

The WRPA Communications Committee serves as the voice and brand steward of the association, ensuring consistent, clear, and engaging communication with members and partners. This committee works in collaboration with the WRPA Office to develop, design, and maintain key communication platforms, including the WRPA website, WRPAToday newsletter, email communications, blog content, and social media channels. It also supports the promotion of WRPA events, trainings, and other association initiatives through various publications and outreach efforts.

Committee members assist in gathering and reviewing content, recommending enhancements, and monitoring communications to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with WRPA’s brand standards. The goal is to maintain a trusted, accessible, and informative presence for members, sponsors, and the broader recreation community. Participation in this committee is 1-3 hours per month.

CHAIR: Alissa Manno,  City of Longview

Membership Committee

The WRPA Membership Committee focuses on strengthening and growing the association’s membership base while enhancing overall member engagement and satisfaction. This committee works to recruit new professionals into WRPA and encourage active participation among existing members to ensure a vibrant and connected association.

Key responsibilities include identifying and implementing strategies to improve recruitment and retention, reviewing agency and professional membership rates and packages, and collaborating with the Communications Committee to support member engagement efforts. The committee also helps identify and connect professionals with shared interests across established networks, reviews membership survey feedback, and recommends improvements based on member input.

In addition, the committee supports ongoing member outreach efforts, including monthly renewal and new member follow-ups based on membership reports, and helps ensure continuity through succession planning for committee leadership and participation. Participation in this committee is 2-4 hours per month.

CO-CHAIRS:  Stacey Allington, City of Vancouver & Brian Hauschel, Bremington Parks & Recreation

Park & Recreation Emerging Professionals Committee (PREP)

The Parks & Recreation Emerging Professionals (PREP) Committee is dedicated to engaging students and early-career professionals in the parks and recreation field while building pathways for involvement in WRPA. This committee focuses on connecting emerging professionals with experienced leaders to support networking, mentorship, and career exploration opportunities.

Key efforts include outreach to universities and academic programs across Washington, supporting student engagement at WRPA events, and promoting participation in initiatives such as the WRPA Mentorship Program. The committee works to increase awareness of career pathways in parks and recreation and help cultivate the next generation of professionals in the field.

Participation offers a meaningful opportunity to support professional development, strengthen industry connections, and contribute to the growth of future leaders in parks and recreation.

CHAIR: DJ Mackie, Pullman Parks & Recreation

Ready to Get Involved?

Volunteering with WRPA is a rewarding way to make a difference while enhancing your skills and connections. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, your contribution will be valued and impactful. Together, we can achieve great things! To get started, Check our committee descriptions above and contact us directly at [email protected]

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