• 2026 mParks Conference & Trade Show Student Volunteer & Showcase Presenter Application

    Application due February 13, 2026.

  • 2026 mParks Conference & Trade Show
    March 3–6, 2026 | Lansing, Michigan

    Be part of the premier gathering of Michigan’s parks and recreation professionals at the 2026 mParks Conference & Trade Show, where we invite attendees to Rethink. Reinvent. Reignite. Inspiring Parks. Empowering People.

    Student volunteers play an important role in this four-day event while gaining valuable experience.

    Benefits include:

    • Networking with parks and recreation professionals, agency leaders, and industry vendors
    • Connecting with fellow students from across Michigan
    • Building your résumé with a meaningful volunteer experience
    • Seeing the field firsthand through sessions, programs, and the trade show floor

    Join us in Lansing and take an important step toward your future in parks and recreation.

  •  -
  • Expected Graduation Date*
     - -
    2 digit month, 2 digit day, 4 digit year
  • Are you applying to be a student volunteer or student showcase presenter? Select all that apply.*

  • Availability

    Please Note: After reviewing all applications the mParks Student Focus Area will assign your schedule. Selecting dates below does NOT confirm you will be volunteering that day.

  • Please select all times you are available to volunteer at the 2026 mParks Conference & Trade Show. Leave a day blank if you are unavailable that day.*
    Rows
  • Are you a first time mParks Conference Volunteer?*
  • Will you require housing during the Conference?*
  • Gender - for rooming assignments*
  • Do you want to participate in a carpool with fellow student volunteers*
  • Do you have a vehicle?*
  • Do you have any special dietary needs?

  • 2026 Student Showcase

  • Requirements & Application

    • Student must be graduating between December 2025 - August 2026
    • Student must be in good standing with their academic programs
    • Application must include the endorsement from a faculty or staff member familiar with your academic program
    • Application must include a video introducing yourself, and summarizing your presentation (video is limited to 2-3 minutes)
    • If selected, student will give a 4–5-minute presentation (no technology allowed but creativity is encouraged)
    • If selected, the student must be available during the Student Showcase at the mParks Conference & Trade Show: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 6: 30 pm - 8:00 pm
    • Up to five students will be selected to participate in the 2026 Student Showcase
    • Applications are due February 13, 2026.

     

    Presentation Theme: Rethink. Reinvent. Reignite. Inspiring Parks. Empowering People.

    The 2026 mParks Student Showcase invites you to explore how fresh thinking, innovative ideas, and renewed passion can shape the future of parks and recreation. This theme encourages students to reflect on their role as emerging leaders and to share how they will rethink challenges, reinvent possibilities, and reignite inspiration in their communities and in the profession.

    Share your insight on the following:

    • Rethink: How have you challenged norms or explored new approaches that elevate parks, programs, or community experiences?
    • Reinvent: How have you applied creativity, innovation, or problem-solving to reimagine services, spaces, or opportunities in parks and recreation
    • Reignite: How has your passion for the field grown—and how will you spark energy, engagement, or connection for others?
    • Inspiring Parks. Empowering People: How will your work help build environments and experiences that inspire, empower, and strengthen Michigan communities?

     

  •  -
  • Browse Files
    Cancelof
  • Should be Empty: