• 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show Student Volunteer & Showcase Presenter Application

    Application due January 14, 2027.

  • 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show
    February 2–5, 2027
    Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
    Acme, Michigan

    Be part of the premier gathering of Michigan’s parks and recreation professionals at the 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show, where we invite attendees to Be a Beacon.

    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 Acme (near Traverse City) and take an important step toward your future in parks and recreation.

     

    🎁 Apply Early & Score Some mParks Merch!

    Submit your Student Volunteer/Showcase application before the end of the fall semester and you’ll receive some FREE mParks merch as a thank-you for applying early!

    Don’t wait - get your application in and snag some mParks swag!

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  • Expected Graduation Date*
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    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 Career 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 2027 mParks Conference & Trade Show. Leave a day blank if you are unavailable that day.*
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  • 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?

  • 2027 Student Showcase

  • Requirements & Application

    • Student must be graduating between December 2026 - August 2027
    • 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, February 2 | 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
    • Up to five students will be selected to participate in the 2027 Student Showcase
    • Applications are due January 14, 2027.

     

    Presentation Theme
    Be a Beacon: Inspiring the Future of Parks & Recreation

    The 2027 mParks Student Showcase invites you to shine a light on the ideas, experiences, and perspectives that will shape the future of parks and recreation. As emerging professionals, you have the opportunity to bring fresh energy, challenge traditional thinking, and inspire positive change in the communities you will serve.

    This year's theme, Be a Beacon, encourages students to reflect on how their passion, creativity, and leadership can illuminate new possibilities, guide others, and make a lasting impact on the profession. Whether through innovative ideas, personal experiences, or a vision for the future, we want to hear how you will help light the way forward.

    Share your insight on one of the following:

    • Illuminate New Possibilities: What fresh ideas, creative solutions, or innovative approaches could help shape the future of parks, programs, and recreation experiences?
    • Lead the Way: How will you use your skills, experiences, and leadership to create positive change and inspire others in the parks and recreation profession?
    • Spark Connection: How can parks and recreation professionals create welcoming spaces, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen connections within their communities?
    • Light the Path Forward: What is your vision for the future of parks and recreation, and how will you help build a profession that inspires, empowers, and serves future generations?

     

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