The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society (PRPS), and National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) are proud to announce a career development video has been produced and financed by PRPS and is now available to introduce high school and college students to parks and recreation as a viable career choice.

Housed at nrpa.org/ChoiceCareer, the video is associated with complementary career development materials available to agencies and professionals nationwide. It is designed to be an integral component of seasonal staff orientations, new employee trainings, introductions to public recreation programs like family movie nights and teen programs, high school and public event presentations, and many other local opportunities that engage with the video’s prime audience.

A Choice Career: Parks and Recreation offers an interview-driven, “real people, real stories,” approach to create a compelling, emotional appeal that expands viewers’ awareness and understanding of the diversity and viability of a meaningful and fulfilling career in parks and recreation—along with an invitation to connect interest with action.

In support of its research mission, the American Academy for Park & Recreation Administration (AAPRA) hosts an annual research paper competition that alternates between best doctoral dissertation (even numbered years) and best master’s thesis/special project paper (odd numbered years). The following three awards will be given in 2025: One (1) Masters/Special Project Paper $750 and up to $500 in travel funds to attend the NRPA 2025 Annual Conference in Orlando, FL, September 16-18, 2025, and a Award Certificate of Merit. Two (2) Certificate of Merit awards to two Masters/Special Project Paper finalists.

Have you ever wanted to strengthen your professional development in our parks and recreation profession, but weren’t sure how to proceed? Consider joining the Mentorship Program sponsored by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) and National Recreation and Park Association’s Young Professionals Network (YPN). The Mentorship Program pairs young professionals, students, and new directors with Mentors who can provide a sounding board, advise, and feedback to help Mentees achieve their goals. The purpose of the program is to provide each Mentee with development opportunities through a relationship with an experienced professional. Still not sure?  Attend this recorded webinar to hear the experiences of emerging leaders, as well as professionals who served as mentors this past year. You’ll be glad you took the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone and explore professional development, coaching, and support. Registration for the Mentorship Program is open now through Friday March 7, 2025. Join us for an informational webinar on February 20 to learn more.