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Professional Development School - Jurassic Parks & Rec

November 9, 2025 5:00 PM - November 12, 2025 11:00 AM (CST)

Description

IPRA's longest-standing educational and networking opportunity takes place in November at the majestic Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, Illinois. Professional Development School, otherwise known as PDS, provides park, recreation, forest preserve, and conservation professionals with the opportunity to gain practical education in a small, student-focused and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are a new or seasoned professional, this is the place to LEARN, develop, and hone skills to become a more effective practitioner; broaden your leadership development and CONNECT with others to build your network; and equip yourself with tools to lead and INSPIRE your agency. 

Grab your park pass and step into "Jurassic Parks & Rec" where countless professionals have completed PDS and taken their careers to the next level!

The registration deadline was Thursday, October 9, but we are no longer accepting registration due to capacity. Interested delegates are encouraged to add their name to the waitlist in case there are changes.

Location: Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa, located at 444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, IL 60136.

Who Should Attend: PDS offers a graduated, 3-year curriculum designed to help industry professionals advance their careers. Regardless of job title or work experience, new attendees must start at Year One, advance to Year 2, and Graduate to the last level. PDS graduates are eligible to participate at the Graduate level annually.

  • Year 1 - identifies individual strengths and hones skills needed to perform effectively
  • Year 2 - discovery to being intentional and mission-focused
  • Graduate - presents tools to move teams and agencies toward improved success

What's Included? Includes room and board, Sunday dinner, Monday and Tuesday breakfast/lunch/dinner, Wednesday breakfast, participation in educational sessions and social events, and CEUs. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the resort, as well as any snacks outside regular meal times. 

DayActivityTime
SundayArrival and Check-In3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Dinner5:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Keynote
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Homerooms / Social Activities7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
MondayBreakfast7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Sessions8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Lunch12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

Sessions1:00 - 3:15 p.m.

Free Time 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Dinner5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Homerooms / Social Activities6:30 - 10:00 p.m.
TuesdayBreakfast7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Sessions8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Lunch12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Sessions1:00 - 3:15 p.m.

Free Time3:15 - 5:30 p.m.

Dinner5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Graduation / Social Activities6:30 - 10:00 p.m.
WednesdayBreakfast & Departure7:30 - 11:00 a.m.


What are the lodging options? Delegates must select Single-Occupancy (SO) or Double-Occupancy (DO) at registration. If selecting DO, registrants will be required to provide the name of their preferred roommate.


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


CEUs: Event is approved for 1.5 CEUs (Continuing Education Units are for certifications such as CPRE, CPRP, and CTRS).


Stay Connected: Click Here to follow the PDS Facebook page and stay connected with the Board of Regents throughout the year!


Delegates will receive a welcome letter shortly after registration with additional details about how to prepare and things to expect at PDS. 


Interested in Sponsoring?
There are 3 levels of sponsorship opportunities available for interested organizations. Click 'Sponsor Registration' at the top of the page or click here to access IPRA's full sponsorship prospectus.

Pricing


Early-Bird Reg: May 5 - June 2

Regular Reg: June 3 - October 9

Early-Bird Single Occupancy

Member $1,000 / Non-Member $1,265

Early-Bird Double Occupancy

Member $925 / Non-Member $1,190

Regular Single Occupancy

Member $1,025 / Non-Member $1,290

Regular Double Occupancy

Member $950 / Non-Member $1,215

Contact Information

Downers Grove Park District
Name: Josh Williams
Phone: (630) 960-7463
Email: jwilliams@dgparks.org
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