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'26 Diversity Education Institute Sessions

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Groovey, Rad, Dope or Lit: Staying Cool Across the Generations

Keynote

Speakers
  • Molly Hofer - Health & Family Educator
    As a Health and Family Educator for 34 years with University of Illinois Extension, Molly has been teaching individuals and families in the Chicagoland area about a variety of life issues, including healthy aging, intergenerational relations, retirement, adult caregiving and family communication topics. Molly’s community based, research supported workshops extend to a variety of audiences, including professional and paraprofessional staff, older adults, adult children, family caregivers, and others. Through Molly’s interactive, facilitative approach to teaching life skills to others, she aims to promote healthy lifestyle decisions, effective family communication, and management of life transitions. Molly holds a master’s degree in gerontology from Western Illinois University, and professional memberships with American Society on Aging, Gerontological Society of America, National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, North Central Region Aging Network, Epsilon Sigma Phi, and Delta Kappa Gamma Professional International Honor Society of Key Women Educators.
Summary
Today, it is not uncommon to have multiple generations in families, organizations, and in the workplace. Each generation comes with strengths and perspectives based on life experiences. When viewpoints and practices differ, misunderstandings may occur. These misunderstandings may occur between family members, co-workers, or in working with clients from multiple generations. Generational membership is sometimes blamed for these misunderstandings. Come and learn about ways to build bridges across the generations, mainly through communication, collaboration, and mutual mentoring. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Identify three common attributes of each of the generations and how knowledge of these attributes can be used to positively impact multigenerational park and recreation program design and implementation. 2. Identify three strategies for increasing generational understanding and acceptance both internally within Park and Recreation organizations, and externally in building community relationships. 3. Develop an action plan for mutual mentoring to cultivate multigenerational collaborations in supporting peers, clients, and communities.

Human Resource Orienteering: Learning to Navigate Recruitment & Onboarding at Your Agency

Concurrent General Session #1

Speakers
  • Laure Kosey - Executive Director
    Laure L. Kosey, Ph.D., CPRE has served as the Executive Director of the Oak Brook Park District since 2010. She has been an active member of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) since 2000. Currently, she serves as Chair on the IPRA Board of Directors, is a CAPRA Visitor, and has presented at NRPA, and IAPD/IPRA conferences. Under Dr. Kosey’s leadership, the Oak Brook Park District has achieved significant milestones, including recognition as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency and earning CAPRA accreditation and reaccreditation. The District was awarded the prestigious National Gold Medal for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management in both 2015 and 2025. She holds a B.A. in Financial Management and Marketing Management from the University of St. Thomas, an M.S. in Athletic Administration from St. Cloud State University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum Studies from DePaul University.
  • Alli Siamis - HR & Risk Manager
    With more than 15 years of experience in parks and recreation, Alli Siamis brings a unique perspective to human resources and risk management. She began her career on the recreation side of parks and recreation, gaining hands-on experience leading frontline staff, managing high-risk operations, and responding to real-world challenges. That operational foundation naturally led her into roles as an HR & Safety Supervisor and ultimately HR & Risk Manager with the Oak Brook Park District, where she partners with staff to build strong teams, reduce risk, and create compliant, people-first working environments. Alli holds the PHR, SHRM-CP, and CPRE certifications and serves as Co-Chair of the IPRA HR Group. She is a strong advocate for practical DEI strategies that support staff and strengthen organizational culture. She is passionate about helping supervisors lead with confidence, accountability, and clarity.
Summary
Many people often ask the same question on their first day at a new job - 'So what do I do now?' Laure Kosey and Alli Siamis of the Oak Brook Park District will walk attendees through the experience of navigating and developing an inclusive recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process. They will discuss the lack of resources that make the onboarding process challenging, and review Oak Brook Park District's implementation tools that not only empower new staff to be successful but answer that very question every has on their first day. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Develop tangible material to help guide new staff 2. Identify how to create an inclusive recruiting and hiring process 3. Learn the tools needed to design your own passport experience for your agency

Ableism & Neurodivergent Inclusion

Concurrent General Session #1

Speakers
  • Colleen Cline - Recreation Manager
    Colleen’s professional career began more than 25 years ago within the realm of education, where she provided ASL interpretation for deaf/hard of hearing students in middle school, taught life skills to students with multiple needs, and served as the sponsor and coach for multiple clubs and sports. She began her therapeutic recreation career 13 years ago at NEDSRA. Colleen is currently the Recreation Manager overseeing Inclusion Services, Support Staff/Volunteers, and Brochure Development. She is a life-long advocate for individuals with disabilities. Colleen likes to consider herself a professional auntie, and in her spare time you will find her on adventures with her niece and nephews!
Summary
This session introduces the concept of neurodiversity and highlights common neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD, and developmental delays, particularly as they relate to inclusion services in recreation settings. It explores how neurodiversity presents across the lifespan, emphasizing that individuals’ needs may change over time. The session also defines ableism and examines how it can appear in recreational environments through structural and attitudinal barriers, as well as gaps in awareness and training. Finally, participants are provided with practical strategies to reduce ableism and micro-aggressions and to foster more inclusive, welcoming recreation spaces for all participants. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Define neurodiversity and identify common neurodivergent conditions encountered in recreation settings. 2. Recognize examples of ableism and microaggressions, including structural and attitudinal barriers. 3. Apply inclusive practices and strategies to reduce ableism and create supportive, accessible recreational environments for neurodivergent individuals across the lifespan.

What Employers Need to Know in 2026

Concurrent General Session #2

Speakers
  • David Moore - Partner, Litigation Department Chair
    Dave has served as the co-chair of Laner Muchin's Litigation Department since 2024. Dave joined the Firm in 2008 and has been a partner since 2013. He regularly litigates substantial-exposure employment litigation matters, including wage-and-hour and biometric class actions as well as discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims. He also represents and counsels employers in labor relations, including union avoidance strategies, responding to union organizing campaigns, collective bargaining, grievance arbitrations, and labor board hearings. He also provides, on a nearly daily basis, compliance-related and strategic advice on a broad range of employment issues. Dave has been recognized and selected to the Illinois Super Lawyers and Leading Lawyers lists in multiple years. Dave was also selected by the National Law Review as an Elite Boutique Trailblazer in 2022. Dave is active in the Chicago chapter of the Society of Human Resources Managers (SHRM), including serving on Chicago's SHRM's Board of Directors and as Co-Chair of its Legislative Committee. Dave is also active in the Illinois Government Finance Officers Association, speaking at state-wide and local conferences
Summary
Join Dave for a fast‑paced and insightful exploration of the most important employment law developments shaping the 2026 workplace. This session will break down complex regulatory changes into clear, practical takeaways that every employer can use right away. Expect lively discussion, real‑world scenarios, and expert guidance on how to stay compliant in an evolving legal landscape. Whether you're navigating new technologies, shifting enforcement priorities, or emerging workplace expectations, this session will equip you with the knowledge you need—and keep you ahead of the curve. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. What employers need to know about the Illinois Human Rights Act's rules on Artificial Intelligence. 2. What employers need to know about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion under the current administration. 3. What employers need to know about ICE enforcement activities and immigration law compliance.

From Implementation to Innovation - Lessons Learned, Next Steps

Concurrent General Session #2

Speakers
  • Juan Carlos Acevedo - Superintendent of Marketing & Communications
    Juan Carlos Acevedo, CPRE, is a parks and recreation professional with more than 18 years of experience in marketing, communications, program development, event planning, and community engagement. He currently serves as Superintendent of Marketing & Communications for the Wheeling Park District. Juan is a co-founder of Hispanic Professionals in Parks and Recreation and serves on the Board of Directors for World Urban Parks, where he chairs the Latin American Committee. He is also a frequent presenter at local, national, and international conferences, speaking on topics such as public services marketing and expanding recreational access in urban communities. Juan is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where his research explores how marketing strategies can be used to expand access to leisure and recreation opportunities.
Summary
Many agencies have implemented a range of strategies to better reach and serve their communities. These efforts have included targeted outreach, revised marketing approaches, adjusted fee structures, expanded programming, staff training, policy updates, and other organizational initiatives designed to broaden participation and improve access. Many of these changes emerged in response to shifting community demographics, professional best practices, and evolving expectations about public service. More recently, many agencies have been operating within a changing climate that has influenced how certain initiatives are framed, funded, and sustained. As a result, some organizations are reassessing which strategies are most effective, which present implementation challenges, and how to continue serving community needs while navigating pressures. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Examine some of the strategies agencies have implemented to reach and engage their communities. 2. Explore how some agencies are adapting these approaches moving forward, including how they are refining, sustaining, or rethinking initiatives.

Roundtable Discussions

Roundtable Discussions

Summary
Roundtable discussions led by the DEI Board of Regents that will cover various topics.

Small Actions, Big Impacts

Concurrent General Session #3

Speakers
  • Michael Contreras - Superintendent of Recreation & Revenue Facilities
    Mike Contreras is a dedicated leader and advocate in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the parks and recreation profession. He played a critical role in advancing DEI initiatives at the Oak Brook Park District, serving as a key member of its DEI committee. His collaborative efforts helped the district earn the prestigious IPRA Champions for Change Award in 2022, recognizing meaningful and measurable progress in equity-driven practices. Mike also contributed to the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) LatinX SafeZone conversations, facilitating open and honest dialogue that empowered park districts to better understand and support Hispanic communities. Through leadership, community engagement, and a commitment to inclusive practices, he brings both lived experience and professional expertise to conversations surrounding DEI.
  • Grant Gilchrist - HR Manager
    Grant Gilchrist is the Human Resources Manager at the Glencoe Park District, where he leads the IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access) Committee and assists with employee engagement initiatives. With six years of experience in parks and recreation, Grant started in aquatics, managing programs, facility operations, and safety before transitioning into human resources. He also serves on the IPRA Diversity Education Institute Board of Regents and coaches park district summer swim team.
  • Rob Bond - Executive Director
    Rob began his professional journey towards DEI alliance at Oak Brook Park District, where he served as a founding member of the District's DEI Committee. The opportunity to collaborate with strong leadership and open minds allowed him the opportunity to find his voice and become more active in the process of establishing a sense of belonging for all people he meets and serves. Rob co-presented on this topic at the IL State Conference with Mike Contreras and Grant Gilchrist and is excited to update and share it's evolution as the DEI movement has transformed.
Summary
Get ready for a lively dive into how small, everyday actions can spark big cultural shifts in DEI. We’ll explore how bringing an inclusive mindset into ordinary moments can create extraordinary ripple effects across a team. Through stories, examples, and a bit of interactive fun, you’ll see how belonging becomes contagious when everyone plays a part. Join us to discover how simple habits can transform your workplace into a place where people feel seen, valued, and energized. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Identify small, realistic actions to strengthen the culture of inclusivity. 2. Recognize how an inclusive work environment directly impacts employee satisfaction and retention. 3. Apply practical strategies to improve guest and staff sense of belonging and trust.

Everybody Moves! Supporting Access to Leisure-Time Physical Activity for Individuals with Disability from Racial and Ethnic Minority Backgrounds

Concurrent General Session #3

Speakers
  • Delphine Labbé - Associate Professor
    Dr. Delphine Labbé's research focuses on promoting full participation and health for people living with disabilities by optimizing their interactions with the social and physical environments. Her community-based research focuses on recreational and physical activities for people with disabilities of all ages. She is also interested in the experiences of people with intersecting identities, including their cultural and ethnic backgrounds, immigration status, religion, etc. She has been studying a variety of leisure and sports, including hiking, sailing, adaptive skiing, and gardening. She currently co-leads Everybody Moves!, a mixed-methods project that explores how to support better participation in leisure-time physical activity among people with disabilities from Black/African American and Latino communities.
  • Monika Stodolska - Professor
    Dr. Monika Stodolska is a Brightill/Sapora Professor in the Department of Recreation, Sport and Tourism, University of Illinois. She received her Ph.D. in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Alberta, Canada. Her research focuses on issues of cultural change, quality of life, and their relationship to leisure behavior of ethnic and racial minoritized populations. She explores subjects such as the adaptation processes among minority groups, recreation behavior of minority populations in natural environments, physical activity among minority groups, as well as constraints on leisure. Dr. Stodolska’s research has been funded by the NIH, NIDILRR, USDA Forest Service, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and National Recreation and Park Association. She has co-edited books on Race, Ethnicity and Leisure with Drs. Shinew, Floyd and Walker and two editions of Leisure Matters with Drs. Walker, Scott, and Liechty. Her research has also been published in Journal of Leisure Research, Leisure Sciences, Leisure/Loisir, Annals of Behavioral Medicine, Social Science Quarterly, Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Studies and other outlets.
Summary
This presentation will discuss the insights gained from the Everybody Moves project. This project explores access to and participation in leisure time physical activity (LTPA) for people with disability of African American and Latino backgrounds. The overall goal of the study was to better understand their needs, constraints, and facilitators to LTPA participation and to identify gaps in recreation services and resources for meeting these needs. This study aimed to (1) increase our understanding of the factors that impact an individual’s access to and participation in LTPA; (2) document and analyze existing community-based programs offering opportunities for adaptive LTPA; and (3) analyze the policies that may impact disability and inclusion of racially and ethnically minoritized populations in LTPA. We conducted interviews with individuals with disabilities, a review of available LTPA programs and a systematic analysis of policies. We learned that experiences of people with disabilities from Latino and African American communities are unique, and therefore might require different approaches and recreation services to ensure their access to LTPA opportunities. Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to... 1. Better understand the needs of people with disabilities from African American and Latinos communities. 2. Identify the gaps in services and programs. 3. Identify strategies to better support participation of people with disabilities from African American and Latinos communities.

Last Call Speed Session

Last Call Speed Session

Summary
All attendee speed session to debrief the day with the DEI Board of Regents and discuss learned concepts and any lingering questions from previous sessions.
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