
About IPRF
Meet our dedicated foundation board and learn all about what makes the Illinois Park & Recreation Foundation tick!
Our Mission: Be a sustainable philanthropic organization benefitting members of the Illinois Park & Recreation Association (IPRA).
Our Vision: Invest in developing park and recreation professionals to achieve their full potential.
Our Values: Advancement of Illinois parks, recreation, special recreation, and conservation professionals. Committed to supporting students in the parks, recreation, therapeutic recreation, and conservation fields. Dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Foundation Board
IPRF Board of Trustees














Suzi Wirtz
Serves as IPRA and IPRF Executive Director, overseeing staff and all departments within IPRA. Suzi is a lifelong association management professional, motivated by organizational culture and inspiring and impacting positive change. She has worked for Association Forum of Chicagoland, was CEO of the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce, and has served as an association exec for a wide variety of other international, national, state and local associations. Her background also includes consulting with associations on marketing, membership and educational projects. She is a double major (English/Marketing) from Loras College and a Masters from DePaul University. Suzi holds the IOM designation and has been a speaker for ASAE, state associations, Chambers of Commerce and local businesses.

Maria McGuire
Maria is a collaborative, innovative leader who uses empathy and critical thinking to effectively make unexpected impacts. Maria has a B.S.B.A. from Drake University and many years of experience in digital marketing, consumer engagement and analytics. Maria’s passion lies in helping others and serving the community. A lifelong participant in park district activities and a frequent forest preserve visitor, Maria is excited to be helping IPRA provide exceptional service to our members.