Mission Statement
Recreation University is committed to elevating educational opportunities by providing entry to mid-level professionals without a formal recreation background by learning foundational knowledge of Recreation, Parks, and everything in between.
By completing this program, Recreation University will help cultivate a new community of supportive relationships, a sense of belonging, and readiness to ignite their career and opportunities to the next level.
About the Program:
Recreation University is a 6-session program providing new employees, part-time or seasonal, non-recreational, or administrative staff with the foundational knowledge of the Parks & Recreation Management field. This program is designed for professionals without a degree to gain an overall view of what it means to be a part of such a unique and meaningful profession.
Each month, participants will gain foundational knowledge in Parks & Recreation Management and learn directly from industry experts. Sessions are carefully curated by professionals in the field and include engaging speakers, facility tours across Maryland, and one-of-a-kind learning experiences.
NEW THIS YEAR!
One session will be a Recreation Field Day! Participants will step into the fun by taking part in various recreation activities—a day designed for team building, creative thinking, and possibly even discovering a new program idea to take back to their agency.
Recreation University meets on the second Tuesday of each month at rotating locations throughout Maryland. While we are still finalizing session locations, all topics are listed below on this page.
Graduation will take place on March 10, 2026.
Whether you're a new team member, a department head looking to invest in staff, or an HR representative seeking professional development opportunities—this program is for you or someone on your team. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to build knowledge, connections, and a stronger future in Parks & Recreation.
Topics will include:
- The Basics of Recreation and Parks
- Recreation Programming
- Parks/Operations and Special Events
- ADA/Behavior Management and Senior Programming
- Staff to Supervisor and Graduation
- … and so much more!
Fee:
$425.00 per registrant
*Scholarships Available
The fee includes facility, speaker fees, materials, and meals. You will be invoiced upon acceptance into the program.
Committee Chairs:
Hydea Harris
Jocelynn Thomas
Session 1: October 14, 2025:
The Basics of Recreation and Parks
Session 2: November 11, 2025:
Recreation Field Day!
Session 3: December 9, 2025:
Recreation Programming
Session 4: January 6, 2026:
Parks/Operations and Special Events
Session 5: February 10, 2025:
ADA/Behavior Management and Senior Programming
Session 6: March 10, 202:
Staff to Supervisor and Graduation