2026 CANDIDATE PROFILES

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT-ELECT (PRESIDENT IN 2027, PAST PRESIDENT IN 2028)

Dan Wick, Director of Parks and Recreation
Onalaska Park & Recreation Department, Region I

I am interested in serving as the Wisconsin Parks and Recreation Association (WPRA) President to help advance the mission of our profession and support my colleagues across the state. My goal is to use my experience to advocate for the vital role of parks and recreation plays in building healthy, vibrant communities.

With over 25 years of experience in the Parks and Recreation field, I have dedicated my career to developing and managing spaces that foster community well-being. My journey began in hospitality at Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, Wisconsin. I then transitioned into municipal service as the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Elkhorn, Wisconsin. For the past 23 years, I have proudly served in the same role for the City of Onalaska. Additionally, I have had the privilege of sharing my professional knowledge as an adjunct staff member at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse for several years, mentoring the next generation of recreation professionals.

What goals do you have for WPRA, and what do you hope to accomplish as President?
My goal is to continue to grow the membership and reach out to new professionals to get them engaged in the association. I would also like to work with the state colleges to find ways our association can work with them.

 Please describe your previous service to WPRA and any notable accomplishments resulting from your involvement.

• Certified Park and Recreation Professional 2002 to present
• Aquatic Facility Operator 2005-2022
• Recreation Section – Region 1 Representative 2004 to 2006
• Region 1 Representative to the Board of Directors 2008 to 2012
• Park Section – Chair Elect (2017), Chair (2018) and Past Chair (2019)
• Annual Conference Chairperson - 2017
• Recreation Young Professional of the Year - 2004
• Conference Committee Member - 2010
• Park Section Professional of the Year – 2017
• Annual Conference and Trade Show Committee Member – 2010, 2017, 2023, 2024
• George Wilson Service Award – 2022
• WPRA Awards Committee – 2023-2025

Please describe why you are interested in serving as WPRA President. 
I am interested in serving as WPRA President because I believe I can bring forward a vision that not only reflects where we’ve been as an Association, but where we need to go. I’ve been involved with WPRA for nearly 15 years and have seen both its evolution and its challenges. I’m at a point in my career where I have the experience, relationships, and confidence to lead with intention and impact. I want to help shape the future of our profession by advocating for the resources we need today, while also focusing on building a strong foundation for the next generation. I’ve seen interest in our field decline and resources continue to shrink and I want to be part of the solution and legacy that brings renewed energy, collaboration, and a clear plan to ensure WPRA remains strong, relevant, and positioned for long-term success.

Provide a brief professional biography or overview of your career in Parks & Recreation.
I began my career in Parks and Recreation as a seasonal playground staff member with the City of Waukesha in 2005. During my summers in college, I kept wondering how I could turn this work into a full-time career without realizing Recreation Management was actually a formal profession. I ultimately earned a degree in Small Business Management, which gave me an entrepreneurial mindset that’s shaped how I lead.

After college, I continued working for Waukesha in an LTE capacity before securing my first full-time role as a Recreation Supervisor with the Shorewood Recreation and Community Services Department, overseeing aquatics, fitness, events, and camps. I later returned to Waukesha as a Recreation Programmer primarily overseeing before/afterschool and camps, and in 2016, I moved to California to serve as a Community Services Supervisor in Rancho Cucamonga.

In late 2017, I came back home to Wisconsin to become Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry for the City of Sun Prairie, where I currently oversee five divisions. Over the last eight years, I’ve had the opportunity, alongside my incredible team, to grow our department from 3 to nearly 20 full-time staff, which included adding a Community Events division, bringing Parks Maintenance under my leadership after about a decade within Public Works, and adding a community resources division (Neighborhood Navigators).

What goals do you have for WPRA, and what do you hope to accomplish as President?
As WPRA President, I hope to bring a clear and future-focused vision that builds momentum for the Association. My goals include strengthening our relationship with the League of Wisconsin Municipalities to ensure parks and recreation has a strong, consistent voice in statewide conversations, and laying the groundwork for a more intentional pipeline of future professionals. I want to take some of the big ideas that have surfaced over the years and move them into action with practical steps and meaningful outcomes. I will lead with intention, focusing on collaboration, connection, and follow-through to ensure our work as an Association continues to grow in impact and relevance

Please describe your previous service to WPRA and any notable accomplishments resulting from your involvement.

• Member, Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association, May 2011 – Present (1 year hiatus in 2017)
• Region IV Recreation Section Representative, 2011-2014
• Coordinated Fun Run at WPRA Conference in 2013
• Assisted in coordinating Fall Workshop in 2014
• Leadership Academy Sub Committee, 2014-2016 and 2018-present
• Co-led summer staff leadership/games training for Region 3, 2019
• Secretary/Treasurer for Young Professional Section, 2019 – 2020
• Participated in WPRA Strategic Planning in 2019
• Presented at WPRA Conference:
• Student Success: The Power of Quality Afterschool Programs (2014)
• Do All Programs Make Money? Should They? (2019)
• Pushing the Boundaries of Team Engagement (2023)

• Presented at Fall Workshop:
• Beyond the Basics: Advancing Employee Engagement & High Performance (2024)

REGION II REPRESENTATIVE (BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2026-2027)

Ryan Pawlisch, Recreation Supervisor
Sheboygan Community Recreation Department, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
Leading by example. I would never ask anyone to do something that I wouldn't do.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I think I bring energy and passion for the field to this role. I have attended every WPRA since 2015 and 5 NRPA's and value everything you take away from organizations like those. The networking, connections, decompress time, ideas, life long learning and fun that you take away from these organizations and bring back to your department is something I want to be apart of. Being the Region II Representative is a great way to give back, make new connections, help others make connections and keep learning about this amazing profession we work in.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA has been extremely important in my career. It is why I am where I am today, and I learn something new every year. WPRA will continue to serve as the connection hub for the state, providing amazing programming, educational opportunities, and a way for colleagues and peers to ensure we all serve our communities in the best ways possible.

Sarah School, Parks and Recreation Program Manager
Village of Greenville Parks, Recreation, and Forestry, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is hands-on, adaptive, and growth oriented. I believe in being actively involved in the work, whether that means supporting my team directly, collaborating with partners, or engaging with the community. I learn from past experiences and use those lessons to refine my approach, keeping what works and adjusting what doesn’t.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I bring to my elected role is a fresh and inclusive perspective. My background is in early childhood education and special education, not traditional parks and recreation, which allows me to approach projects through a different lens. I often consider how a program, space, or initiative will impact children, especially those with diverse needs, and ask myself: How will this benefit them most? This mindset helps me advocate for accessible, engaging, and meaningful experiences for all youth in our community. I believe that by centering their perspective, we can create programs that are not only fun but also enriching and supportive of their development.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see the future of WPRA as one of deeper engagement, broader awareness, and stronger collaboration. There’s so much value in the resources, knowledge, and connections WPRA offers, but we need to continue working to get the word out. I want to help increase involvement across communities and encourage more professionals to tap into what WPRA provides. By promoting these resources and fostering a culture of shared learning, we can all benefit from one another’s experiences and ideas. The more people we bring into the conversation, the stronger and more innovative our parks and recreation programs will become.

Ginger Sowle, Parks & Recreation Director
City of New London, Region II

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style revolves around trust and open collaboration, fostering an environment where every team member's voice is heard and valued. I encourage individuals to use their creativity and unique values in decision-making, then providing the necessary platform and support for them to succeed. This approach centers on a continuous cycle of active listening, thoughtful processing, and goal-oriented guidance in order to be successful as a department.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
After stepping back from being very active in the Aquatics Section for nearly a decade, I hope to return using that situational perspective to give me a unique understanding of what may cause long-time members to disengage. My goal is to actively reach out to those in our region who have become disconnected and reconnect with them. Demonstrating that their valuable experience and wisdom are not only still relevant, but essential to our future.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
As someone who has been involved in the past and observed the WPRA's development more recently as a member, I am genuinely impressed by the positive evolution over the last decade. My perspective from both an active and a less-engaged position gives me a deep appreciation for the changes that have been implemented.The recent integration of education on topics like AI, combined with the excellent communication and customer service from leadership, shows the WPRA's commitment to staying relevant and connected. My hope is that the Association will continue this progressive trajectory, moving right alongside emerging trends in the parks and recreation field.

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

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
One of the most impactful lessons I learned from a great leader I served under in the military was this: a true sign of strong leadership is when a leader can step away, and the team continues to operate at a high level. That insight has stayed with me throughout my 20+ years of leadership experience.I’ve made it a priority to build teams where leadership is shared—where individuals are empowered, trained, and trusted to step up and perform with excellence, even when no one is watching. My goal has always been to cultivate an environment where people are not only capable but excited to take on challenges, and where coming to work is something they genuinely look forward to.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
While there are many ideas I’d love to bring to WPRA as the Region 2 Representative, the most important one for me is fostering a strong sense of connection. I want to help create an environment at our regional meetings where everyone feels genuinely welcome, valued, and encouraged to share their knowledge and experiences. By building this kind of inclusive and collaborative space, we can strengthen our profession and elevate our collective impact across the state.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Over the past eight years, I’ve had the joy of being part of WPRA and have witnessed its many successes, challenges, and unwavering perseverance—through budget constraints, the COVID era, and political shifts. These experiences have only deepened my belief in the importance of our profession and the role WPRA plays in supporting it.Looking ahead, I believe one of WPRA’s most vital roles is to help recruit and inspire the next generation of Parks and Recreation professionals. Unfortunately, enrollment in related college programs continues to decline. We need to do more to educate young people about the value of servant leadership and the profound impact Parks and Recreation has on communities.I didn’t come from a traditional Parks and Recreation background—I was a physical education teacher. It wasn’t until I found a position with Appleton Parks and Recreation that I realized this was where I truly belonged. I often think how different my path might have been if I had known earlier about the opportunities and meaningful work this field offers.WPRA has the potential to be a stronger voice—not only in advocating for our profession at the political level but also in raising awareness about career opportunities in Parks and Recreation. By doing so, we can ensure a vibrant, passionate, and well-prepared workforce for the future.

REGION IV REPRESENTATIVE (BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2026-2027)

Katie Roth, Recreation Manager
City of New Berlin, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I lead with a servant leadership mindset, always putting the needs of my team and the community first. In the world of parks and recreation, that means being hands-on, adaptable, and willing to do whatever it takes to create memorable experiences. If you need someone to get pied in the face, sing a silly song, or throw on a costume to bring a program to life...I'm your gal. I believe great leadership comes from being approachable, supportive, and leading by example, whether that’s behind the scenes or center stage. My goal is to empower my team, uplift our community, and make recreation fun, inclusive, and impactful for everyone.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I’d like to bring to this board position is a stronger focus on expanding training and networking opportunities across all segments of parks and recreation. I’ve truly enjoyed planning the Summer Camp Workshop, Fall Workshop, and the Annual Conference, and I’ve seen firsthand how impactful it is to bring staff together to exchange ideas, build meaningful connections, and grow professionally. I’d love to build on that success by developing targeted workshops and gatherings tailored to the unique roles within our field. By fostering ongoing collaboration and professional development, we can continue strengthening our workforce and build a more unified and effective WPRA.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
As technology keeps advancing and our lives get busier, I believe the future of WPRA is all about bringing people back to what really matters; connection, community, and a little bit of fun. Whether it’s walking in a park, laughing through a group fitness class (we are offering laughter yoga this session), or giving parents peace of mind with safe, engaging day camps, parks and recreation offers real-life moments that screens just can’t compete with. WPRA has the chance to lead the charge; advocating for the power of play, movement, and meaningful experiences. By continuing to adapt, support professionals, and champion the value of what we do, WPRA can help build stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across Wisconsin.

AQUATICS SECTION 

Secretary/Treasurer (2026-2027)

Laura Gessling, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director for Recreation
City of Middleton, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
Hands off and always willing to help for my older/more seasoned staff. Hands on for my newest staff so they learn the ropes. Everyone has their own leading/learning style and I respect that. Newest staff is a lot of leading by example and being consistent. Love working with a team.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I'm very dependable/reliable. I will get done what I am tasked with and ask if I have questions. The others in the group can expect consistency from me. I know that is not the fun answer but it's important.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Growth, learning from others on how to improve.

Region IV Representative (2026-2027)

Ashley McGee, Recreation Program Manager
Shorewood Recreation and Community Services, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I lead by encouraging open communication and collaboration (Democratic), while also inspiring growth and supporting a healthy work-life balance to empower my team (Transformational).

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
The current structure is strong, and there's no need to reinvent the wheel. What I aim to bring to this role is a commitment to transparent communication and active listening, so we can continue to build on what’s already working well and ensure everyone feels heard and supported.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe the future of WPRA holds continued growth, stronger member engagement, and more collaborative initiatives. With a solid foundation already in place, WPRA is well-positioned to adapt to new challenges, embrace innovation, and further enhance its impact. I see it becoming an even more inclusive, responsive, and forward-thinking organization that continues to serve its community with purpose and integrity.

Krystal Ganz, Recreation Supervisor
Milwaukee County Parks, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I approach leadership through collaboration, valuing the unique viewpoints and contributions of each team member. I prioritize open, honest communication that fosters candidness and growth.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
With experience as a non-American Red Cross lifeguard organization and working in a large parks system, I hope to share practices and perspectives while learning from other organizations to enrich the views of my parks department and aquatics division encouraging collaboration and shared growth.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe the WPRA has built a strong foundation for our state and profession. As someone who values growth and adaptability, I see an opportunity to use our diversity and respond to evolving industry trends to advance in meaningful and positive ways.

REPRESENTATIVE AT-LARGE (2026-2027) *Board Position

Deb Bossingham, Aquatics Director
Verona Area School District, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, supportive, and forward-thinking. I believe in creating an environment where staff and colleagues feel valued, empowered, and motivated to succeed. By setting clear expectations, offering guidance, and encouraging innovation, I strive to build strong teams that are committed to delivering excellent service to our communities. My goal is to lead by example, while also listening and learning from those around me.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring a strong voice for aquatics and community recreation to the Board, ensuring that the programs and facilities we provide are inclusive, innovative, and sustainable. I am passionate about mentoring professionals in our field and creating opportunities for growth and connection, particularly for those who are newer to the profession. I also want to contribute practical, hands-on insights from my experience managing multi-facility operations within a school district setting.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe WPRA has the opportunity to become an even stronger advocate and resource for recreation professionals across Wisconsin. The future will likely include expanding education and training opportunities, increasing collaboration between communities, and addressing challenges such as workforce development, facility management, and inclusivity. WPRA can continue to be a leader in providing support and guidance, while also creating connections that help members adapt to changing community needs.

 REPRESENTATIVE AT-LARGE (2026-2027)

Kristen Schmalfeldt, West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Dept.,
Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would describe my leadership style as coaching. I aim to build strong relationships with my team and address the unique strengths of each individual team member to assist them to grow and succeed. As their manager, I invite my team to provide feedback and collaborate with them to achieve our common goal of providing aquatic programs that are a source of pride for our community.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I want to bring to my elected role is being an advocate for water safety and importance of early swim lessons for children. Also I would like to work on introducing water safety community events.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel that the future of WPRA includes more adaptive sports and therapeutic recreation program opportunities. Also I think there may be more intergenerational programs to foster connections between older adults and younger members of the community.

REPRESENTATIVE AT-LARGE COMMERCIAL MEMBER (2026-2027)

Cory Hintze, Senior Account Manager
Carrico Aquatic Resources, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My style of leadership is educate and empower. At the same time, being a part of a project or working alongside the team that I'm leading makes for a stronger team in my experience.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
My goal is to work with the section in order to establish more educational opportunities for aquatic professionals and water safety training for facilities and communities.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel WPRA will further develop the Young Professionals program, seek out more education and networking opportunites and continue to be the advocate for change in policy with our governmental leaders.

PARK SECTION

CHAIR-ELECT - 2026 (CHAIR IN 2027, PAST CHAIR IN 2028)

Lael Pascual, Engagement & Visitor Services Manager
Dane County Parks, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I consider myself an active listener, with a team-focused attitude. We do better when we work together. The park section is a team and I value the different ideas and perspectives each person brings. No matter the size, location, or makeup of your community, I think it’s important that everyone has a voice and feels heard.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I’d like to strengthen our connections within the park section. Since we’re spread out across the state, it’s important that we take time to reconnect and share our experiences. As park section chair, one of my goals would be to create opportunities for us to learn from each other and work together to continually enhance our parks for the benefit of our communities.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I believe WPRA has an opportunity to bring us together. Too often, we operate in our own separate “worlds”—whether in parks, aquatics, recreation, or other areas. But WPRA has the potential to help us connect, support one another, and recognize the ways our work overlaps, even when it’s not immediately obvious. By coming together, we can strengthen our collective impact and enhance parks and recreation opportunities throughout the state.

REGION IV REPRESENTATIVE (2025-2026)

Nick Spence, Public Services Manager
Milwaukee County Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
Some of the best advice I have received also happens to be the simplest; "Be a leader worth following". Embrace your team's passion for the impact our parks have on the communities we serve. Active listening, understanding, and platforming all perspectives will galvanize support and buy-in for the greatest asset across our communities: Parks! Our communities continue to show love and support for our Parks. It's our job to reciprocate this through the work we do every day!

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Perspective, which is always expanding and evolving with the needs of our communities. For the last two years, I have served as the Region IV Representative for the Park Section and am a part of the WPRA Public Policy Committee. I take pride in the strong relationships I have formed with professionals from across the Region and State serving in both these roles. These partnerships have led to open exchange of ideas and feedback that are taken back to Park and Rec departments/municipalities to continually improve the service we provide for our communities.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA needs to continue to be a fierce advocate for the Park and Recreation field and the positive impact it has across our communities. Continued investment in education and promotion of the profession to young leaders is key to building and diversifying our base. It is also vital that we continue to illustrate the need for support and funding of our park facilities and programs, which is why I have great passion for the positions I currently hold as Region IV Rep (Park Section) and Public Policy Committee. All of this work and effort is connected and so important to the health and wellness of our communities.

REPRESENTATIVE AT-LARGE (2026-2027)

Samantha Meyer, Outdoor Recreation Coordinator
La Crosse Parks & Recreation Department , Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I would consider myself a leader who likes to jump in and understand projects and people that I am given the opportunity lead. I feel the most confident when I fully understand the roles and responsibilities of those I am working alongside, and what their expectations of me as a leader are.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I want to bring to this role is my interest in connecting with people & other professionals. I’ve seen firsthand how impactful it can be to turn collaboration and good ideas into attainable projects that leave a positive impact on our communities. When that reach extends beyond your own department, and into other corners of the state I think the possibilities for perspectives and ideas are endless. I am excited to bring my previous experience from the Recreation Section over to the Parks Section and build connections between these two different roles in the organization.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA has served as a solid resource for agencies across the state. I believe WPRA will continue to grow, offering new and unique learning opportunities for both young and established professionals.

RECREATION SECTION

CHAIR-ELECT – 2026 (CHAIR IN 2027, PAST CHAIR IN 2028)

Nick Phalin, Director of Parks & Recreation
Pewaukee Parks and Recreation, Region IV

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style has changed throughout my career but mostly aligns with transformational leadership. I believe in working closely with those I lead, and creating a welcoming environment that outlines expectations. Ultimately, the goal of my leadership style is for those on my team to feel empowered and willing to take the wheel, knowing I support them, but also that I am there when they need me.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
Connectivity – I’ve realized in my three years with the Professional Development Committee that there are still silos that exist in each area working on exactly what they need to complete. While we are all getting our WPRA-based tasks completed, I think there is a significant opportunity to continue connecting all of the committees for better understanding and a more fluid operation for all groups.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I see a bright future. In the past five years, there has been significantly more transparency, new individuals becoming involved, and a greater passion to serve. I also think there is a lot more fun to be had in these roles, working with colleagues across the state and serving our profession.

REGION I REPRESENTATIVE (2026-2027)

Mikinley Prafke, Recreation Supervisor
Chippewa Falls Parks, Recreation & Forestry, Region I

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I am a Servant leader. I focus on empowering others, listening to the needs of others, and creating a welcoming supportive environment. I believe by putting the needs of people first we can help grow the organization as a whole. I strive to lead by example, foster collaboration, celebrate achievements, and ensuring that the decisions are guided by integrity and the best interest of our members and communities we serve.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to bring more information to those in the WPRA community. Whether it be through more statewide virtual brainstorming sessions or creating a recreation "Hot Sheet" that shares new programs, equipment lists, and handbooks. Helping your neighbor across state makes us all better.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
Growth. Not only growth in membership but growth in services that are provided. People move to for work, but they stay for the community. Departments that work with WPRA have the opportunity to help build the communities they serve. Through advocacy at the capital to expanding programs, we can on track to be better each year.

REGION III REPRESENTATIVE (2026-2027)

Abby Rogers, Recreation Coordinator
Sauk Prairie Recreation Department, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I lead by example. I am never above and job and will do what it takes to me sure the job gets done. I want to show that to my peers that I am always willing to help.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I want to show the impact that Recreation has on everyone's lives. And how Recreation should be accessible for anyone and everyone.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I think it's only going to keep growing. As things evolve, I think the recreation will keep up and evolve with it. I think the wpra will do a fantastic job with keeping up with the changing industry

Janet Hutchens, Parks and Recreation Specialist-Senior
Wisconsin DNR, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My style of leadership is to gather input from stakeholders to collaborate and ensure I'm meeting the needs of the team members with the resources available. I set goals and objectives and strive to meet them in a timely manner. I am not afraid to try new things.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
I have 35 years of experience in natural resources and outdoor recreation leadership in Wisconsin in a variety of settings, and a deep passion for helping others excel in the field while strengthening the profession to meet future needs.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA has the opportunity to become a leader and provider of outdoor recreation skills leadership training and to provide a pathway for aspiring professionals to gain the experience and knowledge needed to enter or advance in the recreation profession. Currently there is no clear pathway for an individual to enter this field, or, a standard progression of skills-based certifications to be competitive as an applicant. Wisconsin is a leader as a destination for outdoor recreation, and it can also become a leader in building and supporting the professionals that support this industry.

Holly Pohl, Recreation Supervisor
City of Sun Prairie of Parks, Recreation & Forestry, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
My leadership style is to empower those around me by providing the tools, support and communication needed to make successful independent decisions.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
It is so important to stay connected, and I want to use this role to continue to find opportunities to keep the regions throughout the state connected to one another.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
WPRA is a vital resource for WI Park & Rec professionals. I see the need for WPRA's access to professional development only to increase as our own organizations resources become more limited and unable to provide this support.

Ryan Daum, Recreation & Aquatics Coordinator
City of Baraboo Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department, Region III

How would you describe your style of leadership?:
I tend to follow what I like to call the Vanilla Ice Leadership Style: stop, collaborate, and listen. For me, stopping means taking the time to pause and assess a situation so I can fully understand what is happening before moving forward. Collaborating means bringing people together, drawing on their diverse strengths, and building toward shared goals as a team. Listening means making sure the needs and concerns of those I am leading are truly heard and considered before any decisions are made. This style helps me lead with clarity, inclusivity, and respect while keeping the team engaged and aligned.

What is one thing you want to bring to your elected role?:
One thing I want to bring to this role is my strong commitment and passion for the recreation field. I believe that energy can be used to support colleagues, strengthen connections between agencies, and continue moving our profession forward across the state.

What do you feel the future has in store for WPRA?:
I feel that WPRA is moving toward strengthening ties among all members and organizations across the state. I want to continue fostering that spirit of collaboration, helping us work together to share ideas, support one another, and raise the overall performance of recreation in Wisconsin.

The following position(s) are still open. If you are interested in WPRA leadership or know of someone that is interested, please email [email protected].

Aquatic Section

• Chair-Elect (2026 - 2027)

• Region II Representative (2026 - 2027)

Park Section

• Region III Representative (2026 - 2027)