In announcing the 2024 National Gold Medal Finalists, AAPRA Executive Director Jane H. Adams shared, “Each agency is commended for submitting a 2024 application for the prestigious National Gold Medal Award. The Academy congratulates the 20 local park and recreation agencies and the four armed forces installations on receiving the Finalist award. We look forward to presenting these awards at the Gold Medal Gala Reception in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the National Recreation and Park Association’s annual conference.” The 2024 National Gold Medal finalists are: 

The Young Professional Externship Program enables outstanding young professionals 35 years of age and younger in the parks and recreation field to interact with and learn from members of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, and other individuals who attend the NRPA Conference and its associated meetings. Up to four Externs are selected each year, of which two are Ernest T. Atwell diversity externships. Selected Externs each receive (1) reimbursement for the 2024 NRPA Conference registration; (2) up to $1,000 in reimbursement for conference. Learn more and apply here.

In preparation for a successful nomination the Academy highly recommends viewing this webinar, 6 Tips to Nominate a Future Academy Member. If you are interested in becoming an Academy member, you are encouraged to reach out to a current member and inquire if they would nominate you for membership. Not sure who is a current Academy member? Click here to view Academy members by state. If are not familiar with a current Academy member, please reach out to info@aapra.org and efforts will be made to connect you. Learn more about the Academy mission and purpose and about the process and criteria for membership.