2026 Board Candidate Application

Board Candidate Application

2026 ORPA Board of Directors Election Cycle
Join us in shaping the future and making a difference! The Oregon Recreation and Park Association is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for esteemed individuals to run for open board positions.

We are specifically seeking candidates for the following positions:
- Board President-Elect
- Secretary
- At-Large Director (Conference Committee)
- Section President-Elect
  - Admin Section
  - Counties & Outdoor Recreation Section (COR)
  - Maintenance & Construction Section (MACS)
  - Natural Resources Section (NRS)
  - Recreation: Events, Programs & Sports (REPS)
For more information about any of the above roles, the duration of terms, and the expectations of the position, please refer to the Board Elections webpage.

This is an incredible opportunity for passionate individuals to contribute their skills, expertise, and dedication to our noble cause.

For more information, contact ORPA Executive Director, Amanda Parsons: aparsons@orpa.org / 503.534.5673.
Timeline
Board Candidate Application Opens: May 29, 2026

Board Candidate Application Closes: June 30, 2026

Candidates Notified of Selection for Election: July 13, 2026

Ballot Opens: August 3, 2026

Ballot Closes: August 28, 2026

Candidates Notified of Results: September 11, 2026 (or earlier if no runoff election)

Winners Announced: September 16, 2026

New Board Installed: September 24, 2026 at ORPA Annual Conference
Instructions
Submission of this Board Candidate Application serves as the initial step in the Board of Directors election process. All completed applications are reviewed by the Elections Committee to assess eligibility, qualifications, and alignment with board needs.

Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee placement on the election ballot. The Elections Committee will evaluate all candidates and determine a final slate of candidates to be presented to the membership for election.

All applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision once the review process is complete.

Approved candidates will be asked to complete a Candidate Statement for inclusion in the voter's pamphlet accompanying the ballot.
Board Candidate Application
Name of Candidate
Candidate Agency / Organization
Candidate Email Address
Can substitute with a phone number.
For which position are you submitting an application?
Why are you interested in serving on the ORPA Board of Directors, and what unique perspectives or experiences would you bring to the organization?
How do your values align with the mission and strategic priorities of our organization? Please provide specific examples.
What do you see as the most pressing opportunities or challenges facing our field in the next three years, and how would you contribute to addressing them as a board member?
Board service requires collaboration with fellow board members to effectively lead the organization. How do you prefer to work with others in a group setting, and what do you hope to gain from the opportunity to engage with your fellow board members during your term?
The President-Elect serves a three-year leadership term on the Board, progressing to President and then Past President. This role carries significant responsibility for strategic leadership, governance oversight, and supporting the effectiveness of the Board and organization. What qualities, experience, and vision would you bring to this role, and how would you lead the organization through this multi-year commitment?
Please describe your experience with record keeping, meeting documentation, or parliamentary procedures. How have you applied these skills in a professional, volunteer, or board setting, and how would you approach your responsibilities as Secretary on our Board of Directors?
This At-large Director position serves as the chair of the Conference Committee. Please share your experience engaging in or supporting ORPA Annual Conference. How would you build on a robust committee to ensure positive interactions among the committee members and delivery of a world-class event?
As a Section President, you are responsible for representing your section's interests, supporting professional development opportunities, and fostering member engagement. What is your vision for the section you seek to lead, and how do you plan to strengthen its impact within the broader organization?
Acknowledgments

Please confirm your understanding and acknowledgment of the following statements:
Submission of this application does not guarantee placement on the election ballot. All submissions will be reviewed by the Elections Committee, which will determine the final slate of candidates.
I understand that serving on the Board of Directors requires a commitment of time during regular business hours. I confirm that I have obtained approval from my supervisor or manager to pursue this leadership opportunity and to participate fully in board and committee responsibilities.
If selected, I understand that this is an official position of nonprofit board service and that I will be required to adhere to all legal responsibilities and ethical standards associated with nonprofit governance in the state of Oregon. This includes, but is not limited to, compliance with the organization’s bylaws, board policies, conflict of interest requirements, and fiduciary duties.
Should be Empty:

Board Candidate Application

Timeline

Instructions

Board Candidate Application

Acknowledgments