Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute
Now Accepting Applications!
Mission Statement
The Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute has been cultivating emerging leaders and strengthening the skills of experienced leaders in the field of Recreation and Parks for over 10 years. The program empowers participants to grow into leadership roles within their organizations and to pay it forward by contributing meaningfully to the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association.
About the Program
Attendance at all monthly learning sessions is mandatory. These sessions are strategically held at various locations across the state to expose participants to a variety of facilities and showcase the geographic diversity unique to Maryland. Each session features dynamic guest speakers and fosters informed discussions on relevant leadership topics.
In addition to the learning sessions, participants will collaborate in groups to develop and deliver a final presentation. This culminating project involves selecting a topic, conducting research, and presenting their findings on stage at the end of the program year. Through this process, participants deepen their knowledge and emerge as subject‑matter experts in a focused area of parks and recreation. Supplemental assignments and reading materials between sessions will further enrich the overall learning experience.
Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute Application (Application Deadline is July 31, 2026)
As part of the application process, please attach a current résumé and a letter of recommendation from your direct supervisor. A strong letter of recommendation is important—it demonstrates that your supervisor recognizes your potential as a future leader in the field of Recreation and Parks, supports your professional development goals, and is aware of your commitment to this program. Their endorsement helps us understand your readiness for this leadership journey.
All components of the application are important and will be considered as part of the evaluation and selection process. Applicants are encouraged to provide thorough, thoughtful, and complete responses to every question. Attention to detail matters; spelling, grammar, clarity of writing, and overall professionalism will factor into the review. Each part of the application helps the selection team understand the candidate’s readiness for the program and gage their interest.  Applicants should take care to present their best work throughout.  This is the Committee’s chance to get to know you.
To be eligible to apply...
- Submit a resume.
- Submit a letter of recommendation from your direct supervisor.
- Participant must be an MRPA member in good standing.
- Participant must be a Full-Time Employee within a Recreation and Parks organization.
Dates for the Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institutes are as follows (please note that some dates may be subject to change). Under "availability" on the application (below), please confirm your availability for these dates. Attendance at all sessions is required.
- Session 1: 9/17/2026 – Northeast Community Center, Chesapeake Beach
- Session 2 (Overnight Retreat): 10/15 – 10/16/2026
- Session 3:Â 11/19/2026
- Session 4:Â 12/17/2026
- Session 5:Â 1/14/2027
- Session 6:Â 2/18/2027
- Session 7 (Practice Presentations):Â 3/1/2027
- Session 8 (Final Presentation):Â 3/17/2027
- Annual Conference: 4/6 – 4/8/2027
Fee:Â $650.00 per registrant
The fee includes facility, speaker fees, materials, lodging, and meals. Â You will be invoiced upon acceptance into the program.
Graduates of the Institute will present and receive acknowledgment at the MRPA Annual Conference.
Important Notice!! Conference registration, conference accommodations, and the banquet at conference are not included in the Institute fee!
Contact the Committee Co-Chairs if you have questions.
- April Gibson-Thomas april.gibson@pgparks.com
- Dresmond McLaurin dresmond.mclaurin@pgparks.com
- Tenisha Reid tenisha.reid@montgomerycountymd.gov
Click here to download and share the Leadership Institute flyer.
Meet the Committee
April Gibson Thomas
April, our LI Co-Chair, is a graduate of the 2024 Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute and has continued her involvement by serving on the Leadership Institute Committee for the 2025 and 2026 classes. Through engaging workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking, the institute has provided April with invaluable leadership skills, strategic thinking abilities, and networking opportunities that have propelled April forward in her leadership role within Parks & Recreation field.
Currently, she holds the role as Park Permits/Property Manager for M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County.
Tenisha Reid
Tenisha Reid is the Director of the White Oak Community Recreation Center, where she leads a dedicated team in providing inclusive and engaging recreational programs for the community. With over 7 years of experience in parks and recreation management, Tenisha is passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles, community engagement, and lifelong learning through sports, fitness, and cultural activities. Under her leadership, the center has expanded its offerings, improved facilities, and strengthened partnerships with local organizations. Tenisha holds a degree in Communications (Journalism) with a minor in Marketing.
Dresmond McLaurin
Coming Soon
Jason DeMarchi
Jason DeMarchi brings over 20 years of dedicated service to his community and the field of parks and recreation. A committed and passionate leader, Jason successfully completed the MRPA Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute in 2023, where he distinguished himself as a thoughtful and collaborative team member.
His involvement with MRPA extends beyond the classroom where Jason plays an active role on both the Annual Conference Committee and Leadership Institute Committee.
In 2025, Jason returns to the Leadership Institute as Co-Chair for the Class of 2026, continuing his commitment to mentoring and developing the next generation of leaders in the recreation and parks profession.
What do past graduates have to say?
"The Leadership Institute helped to reignite my passion for learning and helped me realize that I am capable of so much more. Rather than being complacent I need to push me outside of my comfort zone to grow. The leadership Institute can help you do the same."
Andrea Rogers (Class of 2023)
"As someone who has been managing staff for over 15 years, my interest in participating in MRPA’s Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute was simply to network and learn more about MRPA. I took away so much more from the program than I ever anticipated. Not only has the program taught me to be a better manager, communicator, and coworker, but it has ignited a desire to pursue new leadership roles and positions and has invigorated my passion for the field of parks and recreation. Whether you are new to being a manager or a seasoned supervisor this program has so much to offer participants, not only professionally but also personally. You simply leave a better person."
Jason DeMarchi (Class of 2023)
"I wholeheartedly encourage others to join this program, as it offers a supportive community of like-minded professionals and fosters personal and professional growth. My time in the program has been both rewarding and enriching, particularly through the connections I've made with fellow recreation professionals, making it an experience I highly recommend to anyone looking to excel in their leadership journey."
April Gibson Thomas (Class of 2024)
"I am an extroverted person but public speaking makes me want to crawl back into my shell. After taking this class, I don't fear public speaking I actually enjoy talking to my audience. Overall, this leadership class will help with your career advancement, boost your confidence and expand your professional network."
Taylor Morton, CYSA (Class of 2023)
"Learning never stops and Leadership Institute provided me with invaluable opportunities for personal growth, self-discovery, and honing of my leadership skills. I left Leadership Institute feeling connected to a group that was determined to be great for our communities."Â
Stephanie Ware-Tuck , M.A (Class of 2023)
The opportunity to learn and share experiences with others across parks and recreation agencies is paramount. Leadership institute challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and grow with public speaking. I am excited to apply all that was learned in class toward my career and future goals.
Dresmond McLaurin (Class of 2024)
"Being a part of the Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute has been an absolutely
transformative experience. From day one, I was surrounded by passionate, driven
individuals who pushed me to grow not only as a leader but as a person. The institute
provided invaluable opportunities to learn from mentors, engage in meaningful
discussions, and develop practical leadership skills that I will carry with me throughout
my career. I’m forever grateful for the Class of 2025!"
Tenisha Reid (Class of 2025)
Introvert or extrovert – you belong here! The Leadership Institute offers a welcoming
space to connect with fellow professionals in Maryland Recreation. You'll have the
chance to exchange ideas, learn from diverse experiences, and build a supportive
network that encourages everyone to thrive. My experience proves it, and I encourage
you to discover it for yourself!
Introvert or extrovert – you belong here! The Leadership Institute offers a welcoming space to connect with fellow professionals in Maryland Recreation. You'll have the chance to exchange ideas, learn from diverse experiences, and build a supportive network that encourages everyone to thrive. My experience proves it, and I encourage you to discover it for yourself!
Gayathri Aluvihare (Class of 2025)
Being a part of the Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute has been an absolutely transformative experience. From day one, I was surrounded by passionate, driven individuals who pushed me to grow not only as a leader but as a person. The institute provided invaluable opportunities to learn from mentors, engage in meaningful discussions, and develop practical leadership skills that I will carry with me throughout my career. I’m forever grateful for the Class of 2025!
Tenisha Reid (Class of 2025)
Graduating from the Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute in 2024 was a transformative experience that shaped my growth as a Parks & Recreation professional. One of the most valuable lessons I took away was the importance of cross-division collaboration especially with teams managing parks and fields to better serve our communities. Since then, I've continued building on that foundation in my roles with the City of Gaithersburg. I'm passionate about giving back to the Institute and supporting future leaders as they grow into impactful, inclusive professionals in our field.
Ana Bonilla (Class of 2024)