Supervisor Symposium Sessions

When Julie got started, she was certain she’d be a playwright/director/actress triple threat. Now, she’s a different kind of triple threat, but still has a deep love of connecting, listening, and helping others through facilitation, strategic planning, change management, and coaching.As President of The Wunderlin Company, Julie possesses substantial knowledge and experience helping individuals, teams, and organizations create meaningful and lasting change. Julie has collaborated with various organizations, ranging from the fine arts to global manufacturing companies. Since 2020, Julie has led or assisted in facilitating over 20 Strategic Planning projects with clients worldwide. She specializes in Virtual Facilitation, meaning she can help teams of all sizes across any geographic location productively collaborate. Julie has recently completed training with Presence Based Coaching to deepen her skill sets as a leadership coach.Julie is a proud alumna of Butler University. Before joining TWC, she worked in marketing and audience services for Tony award-winning theatres, industry-leading staffing companies, and a tent nestled in the Rocky Mountains (seriously!). Julie is a board member of Actors Theatre of Louisville, and the Louisville Youth Choir. Outside of work, she is an amateur home chef, often knitting a sweater for a loved one, and constantly trying to secure a reservation at Meesh Meesh.

Kimberly Barton is the Superintendent of Recreation for the Hoffman Estates Park District. She has held a variety of roles throughout her career and has her Master’s Degree in Recreation and Facility Management. Outside of work, Kimberly enjoys practicing yoga and spending time with a good book.

Carol Heafey, HR and Risk Manager for the Wilmette Park District, began her career in the Parks and Recreation field over 40 years ago as a part time Camp Director before transitioning to a full time role. Having held various positions, ranging from Early Childhood Supervisor and General Recreation Supervisor to Recreation Program Manager, HR and Risk Management Specialist, and currently HR and Risk Manager, she has gained a broad perspective that most people do not experience. Carol loves to share her passion and experience for Parks and Recreation with others. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors.

Julie Nichols is a Recreation Program Manager with over a decade of experience in parks and recreation, focused on innovative, inclusive, and community-centered programming. She leads a diverse portfolio including youth enrichment, arts and culture, and large-scale special events, balancing creativity with strong operational and budget oversight. Known for her strategic, data-driven approach, Julie emphasizes staff development, cross-department collaboration, and sustainable program growth, with a particular passion for mentoring emerging professionals. Guided by values of being welcoming, caring, and extraordinary, she is committed to creating meaningful experiences that strengthen community connection and expand access to recreation.

Emily is a dynamic speaker, workshop facilitator, and certified park and recreational professionalwith a deep commitment to fostering inclusive and collaborative environments.With a career spanning over two decades dedicated to working with individuals with disabilities, Emily has a unique perspectiveon adaptability, empathy and the importance of creating a space where everyone belongs. By blending extensive experience in recreation and community building with the fun and collaborative spirit of improv, she delivers a truly unique and impactful experience that leaves a lasting impression on every group.

Shelby Mepham is an aquatic professional with over 10 years of progressive experience in recreation and aquatic facility management. Beginning her career in a part-time role, she advanced into full-time leadership through a strong commitment to safety, staff development, and program excellence. Shelby has extensive experience overseeing swim lesson programming, lifeguard management, risk mitigation, and daily aquatic operations. She has led hiring initiatives, developed training protocols for first-year and high school-aged lifeguards, and coordinated large-scale seasonal operations. Her hands-on leadership style, combined with a deep understanding of aquatic safety standards and community programming, positions her as a knowledgeable and practical subject matter expert. Shelby brings real-world insight into building strong teams, maintaining high safety standards, and delivering quality aquatic experiences that serve diverse community needs.

When Julie got started, she was certain she’d be a playwright/director/actress triple threat. Now, she’s a different kind of triple threat, but still has a deep love of connecting, listening, and helping others through facilitation, strategic planning, change management, and coaching.As President of The Wunderlin Company, Julie possesses substantial knowledge and experience helping individuals, teams, and organizations create meaningful and lasting change. Julie has collaborated with various organizations, ranging from the fine arts to global manufacturing companies. Since 2020, Julie has led or assisted in facilitating over 20 Strategic Planning projects with clients worldwide. She specializes in Virtual Facilitation, meaning she can help teams of all sizes across any geographic location productively collaborate. Julie has recently completed training with Presence Based Coaching to deepen her skill sets as a leadership coach.Julie is a proud alumna of Butler University. Before joining TWC, she worked in marketing and audience services for Tony award-winning theatres, industry-leading staffing companies, and a tent nestled in the Rocky Mountains (seriously!). Julie is a board member of Actors Theatre of Louisville, and the Louisville Youth Choir. Outside of work, she is an amateur home chef, often knitting a sweater for a loved one, and constantly trying to secure a reservation at Meesh Meesh.

Emily is a dynamic speaker, workshop facilitator, and certified park and recreational professional with a deep commitment to fostering inclusive and collaborative environments. With a career spanning over two decades dedicated to working with individuals with disabilities, Emily has a unique perspective on adaptability, empathy and the importance of creating a space where everyone belongs. By blending extensive experience in recreation and community building with the fun and collaborative spirit of improv, she delivers a truly unique and impactful experience that leaves a lasting impression on every group.

Bobbi Nance is an expert at bringing real change to real life. Whether she’s helping park and recreation teams find value in their data, evaluate their offerings, or set a new strategy, Bobbi makes the work fun, relatable, and actually doable. She’s regularly described as both “passionate and practical,” and brings that unique mix of energy and expertise to all her work, giving people the tools to improve along with the confidence to move forward. Bobbi is a frequent presenter at schools and conferences across North America, including appearances at NRPA, Athletic Business, the American Camping Association, Oglebay’s Revenue School, and NRPA’s Directors School.

Bobbi Nance is an expert at bringing real change to real life. Whether she’s helping park and recreation teams find value in their data, evaluate their offerings, or set a new strategy, Bobbi makes the work fun, relatable, and actually doable. She’s regularly described as both “passionate and practical,” and brings that unique mix of energy and expertise to all her work, giving people the tools to improve along with the confidence to move forward. Bobbi is a frequent presenter at schools and conferences across North America, including appearances at NRPA, Athletic Business, the American Camping Association, Oglebay’s Revenue School, and NRPA’s Directors School.

Kandice is a dedicated parks and recreation professional with over five years of experience specializing in youth programming. She currently oversees summer camp, but in the past has also overseen before and after school programs, creating safe, engaging, and inclusive environments for children of all ages. With a strong background in program development, staff training and management, and community engagement, Kandice is committed to fostering positive experiences that support the social, emotional, and physical growth of participants. Kandice is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and actively participates in ongoing professional development to stay current with industry trends. She also serves as the REC Section Communication Director.

Alex Tagle is a seasoned aquatics and parks and recreation professional with extensive experience in aquatic operations, staff development, and safety management. Alex brings a strong background in leading seasonal teams, implementing industry safety standards, and promoting effective cross-departmental collaboration. Passionate about developing professional, dedicated teams, Alex fosters inclusive and supportive work environments where staff feel empowered to work together toward shared goals, while maintaining a high level of professionalism and safety.

Tiffany Greene lives in Schaumburg with her husband, Albert, and two children, McKiah (14) and Blaze (12). She enjoys traveling, photography and spending time with her family and friends. Tiffany grew up in a small farm town with only 31 students in her graduating class and went on to attend Western Illinois University where she received both her Bachelors and Masters in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration. Early in her career she worked in the hotel industry, for a Convention and Visitors Bureau and for Western Illinois University. Tiffany and Albert moved to the “big city” of Schaumburg in the Summer of 2009, and Tiffany interviewed and accepted a position with Northbrook Park District where she worked for 8 years. She then worked at Roselle Park District as Superintendent of Recreation for 3 years. Tiffany is currently working her dream job as Director of Leisure Services with the Elk Grove Park District where she has been since February of 2020. Tiffany enjoys volunteering and is presently serving as the Women in Leisure Services National Delegate and A&F Section Education Director.

Kraig currently serves as Director of Parks and Planning for the Gurnee Park District, where he emphasizes safety, thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, and community-centered park development. He rejoined the Gurnee Park District in 2015 and brings professional experience from multiple park districts across Illinois, including the Wheaton Park District and the Glencoe Park District. In those roles, he served as Assistant Athletic Director and Program Manager for Athletics and Camp, respectively. Kraig holds a Master of Science in Recreation, Park & Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University and maintains CPRP, CPSI, and CPO certifications. He is an active member of IPRA, NRPA, and MIPE.

Joan Scovic, CPRP, is a marketing and communications professional using her skill set to develop strategies, campaigns, and organizational branding in an innovative and fiscally responsible manner. Joan has been the Director of Marketing & Communications for Northbrook Park District since 2019, following a combined twenty years with Palatine Park District and South Barrington Park District in marketing, communications, customer service, and administrative positions. She currently serves as the Chair Elect of the IPRA Board, as a member of the Joint Editorial Committee, and as Past President of Women in Leisure Services (WILS) Chi Chapter.

Liz Visteen is the Superintendent of Recreation for the Park District of Franklin Park, overseeing a full range of recreational programs, facilities, and community services. With more than 25 years of experience in program development, staff leadership, and strategic planning, Liz is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality recreation. She leads initiatives that strengthen community engagement, promote wellness, and enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages. Liz is dedicated to building vibrant, connected communities through superior service and engagement.

Joe Zimmermann is the Director of Recreation and Facilities at the Buffalo Grove Park District, where he oversees major facilities, capital projects, and a wide range of recreation programs. He's led districtwide initiatives including SmartRec implementation, financial sustainability planning, accreditation efforts, and customer service improvements. He regularly collaborates with school districts, municipalities, and community partners to support efficient operations and long-term planning.