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Growth Mindset for Career Growth - Skills Development for Middle Management

September 9, 2026 1:30 PM - November 4, 2026 3:00 PM (CDT)

Description


Stepping into middle management is an exciting opportunity and a big adjustment. Designed for professionals who oversee departments and supervise staff, this program builds confidence in your leadership role.

You’ll gain practical tools to strengthen your management skills, learn from peers who have adapted and thrived, and develop strategies to lead with clarity and impact in the field of parks, recreation, and conservation.

The cohort is limited to 25 participants and meets virtually five times over a 10-week period. The program features pre-recorded interviews with experienced professionals and guided sessions led by facilitators from the IPRA University Committee.

This blended format combines live interaction with flexible, self-paced learning—making it accessible to members across all special interests and regions of the state.

Step into your role with purpose, sharpen the skills that matter most, and join a community of emerging leaders shaping the future of parks, recreation, and conservation—one smart decision at a time.

What Are Participants Saying?: 


"I know I move fast and work hard. This growth mindset training made me pause, which is not easy for me. I realized that progress matters more than perfection, and that focusing on future improvement instead of past mistakes helps me concentrate on behaviors and strategies rather than personality." - Pilar Martinez, Early Childhood Supervisor, Park District of Oak Park

"This program is great for learning what to expect at the next level in your career." - Mark Dolphin, Athletics Manager, Palatine Park District


REGISTRATION OPENS JULY 2 - DEADLINE IS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2.

Location: Online via Zoom in IPRA University

Who Should Attend: This learning series is designed for park, recreation, and conservation professionals who are new to middle management, typically within their first 5 years in a leadership role. Built for those navigating the transition from individual contributor to people leader, the curriculum equips emerging managers with practical tools for communication, forecasting, boundary-setting, and mindset development.

What's Included? Synchronous and asynchronous learning activities with IPRA University Committee facilitators, digital workbook, course discussion platform, and resources.

Financial Assistance: Click Here to apply for a scholarship through the Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation by July 31, 2026!

CEUs: Program is approved for 0.8 CEUs for CPRE, CPRP, and CTRS certifications. (Pre-approved by NCTRC)

Event Sessions:

DayActivityTime
September 9Congrats on Your New Job Title! Now What?
1:30pm - 3:00pm
September 23Bring Your Umbrella – Forecasting as a Skill
1:30pm - 3:00pm
October 7Communication Pathways and Their Purpose
1:30pm - 3:00pm
October 21From Peer to Power Dynamic – Setting New Boundaries
1:30pm - 3:00pm
November 4Reframing Problems as Positives – Changing Perspective
1:30pm - 3:00pm


Pricing

$300 IPRA Member / $450 Non Member

Need financial assistance? Click Here to apply for a scholarship through IPRF!

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Contact Information

Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA)
Name: Camilla Best
Phone: (708) 588-2280
Email: Camilla@ilipra.org
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