Historical Information

WPRA dates back to predecessor organizations as early as 1898 and was established in its present form in 1965 through a merger of several leading professional and service organizations. WPRA works closely with local, state, and national recreation and park agencies, citizen groups and corporations to carry out its objectives. Priorities include advocating favorable legislation and public policy; continuing education for park and recreation professionals and citizens; providing professional certification, promoting university accreditation, agency accreditation, research, and technical assistance; and increasing public awareness of the importance of parks and recreation. 

WPRA Past Presidents: 

2025 Jamie Polley 2005 Ron Grall  1985 Stan Dorff 
2024 Derek Donlevy 2004 Kelly Valentino  1984 Jim Kavemeier
2023 Stephanie Schlag 2003 Rick Beattie  1983 Steve Stauber
2022 Shelly Strasser 2002 Al Schaefer  1982 Fred Zimdars
2021 Dawn Comte 2001 Roger Kist  1981 Gary Anderson
2020 Jacob Anderson 2000 Ken LePine 1980 Gene Park 
2019 Chad Dallman  1999 Paul Leuthold 1979 Bill Houtz
2018 Jeff Skoug  1998 Bob Holling 1978 Tony Bruno 
2017 Tom Flick  1997 Marianne Pigeon  1977 August Revoy
2016 Craig Hoeppner 1996 Bill Faherty 1976 Larry Lenox
2015 Sue McDade 1995 Bill Anderst  1975 Forrest Bradley
2014 Roger Kist  1994 Cindy Busch 1974 Alan Domer
2013 Joel Gregozeski  1993 Bob Lang 1973 Ruth James
2012 Dan Fiorenza 1992 Bill Langvatter 1972 Charles Drayna
2011 Ed Englehart  1991 Ken Van Es 1971 George Wilson 
2010 Bill Lecker 1990 Jackie Schweitzer 1970 Wayne LaBorde
2009 Marty Kosobucki 1989 Bob Rundle 1969 Chet Miller 
2008 Joe McLafferty 1988 Don Campbell/ Bob Rundle  1968 Don Brick 
2007 Roger Kist  1987 Steve Thompson 1967 Bob Espeseth
2006 Cyndi Keller 1986 Charles Newby 1966 Bill Anders