2026 Board of Directors

President

Anthony Dahms, CPRP
Director, Gray Recreation

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I want to serve on the board because I believe in the mission. I’ve benefitted from educational opportunities, workshops, and networking. I want to give back.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
MRPA’s purpose is to support the Parks and Recreation profession in Maine through educational opportunities, networking, and advocacy.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If elected, I would help support that purpose by holding regular board meetings, serving on committees and subcommittees and working with the executive team for MRPA.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
My past experience with MRPA includes serving as the Southern Maine Regional Representative and the Vice President on the board of directors. I currently serve on the fall workshop committee and scholarship committee. I’ve hosted Southern Maine regional meetings as well as conference sessions. I have attended the Spring Conference and Fall Workshop regularly and have been to the NRPA conference a few times.

Vice President

Angela O’Connor, CPRP, CPO
Deputy Director, Portland Parks, Recreation & Facilities

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
“For me, being a Parks and Recreation professional is a lifelong passion rather than just a career. I believe it is vital for MRPA to lead the way in supporting and cultivating the next generation of professionals across our state. My goal is to help sustain our current momentum while introducing fresh, proactive initiatives in the coming year. With an understanding of both the ‘Parks’ and ‘Recreation’ sides of our industry, I offer a collaborative and balanced perspective that ensures all facets of our field are represented and heard.”

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
Defining MRPA’s primary purpose is a challenge because the organization is truly the backbone of everything we do. It is where our advocacy meets our action. Whether it is through workshops and conferences that sharpen our skills, or DEI initiatives that ensure our spaces are inclusive for all, MRPA provides the framework for us to excel. Most importantly, it creates a statewide network where no professional has to solve a problem alone. I would love to continue to help support these existing strengths while helping MRPA evolve, ensuring we remain a proactive force that supports every Parks and Rec professional in Maine as they work to provide for their communities.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If elected, I would continue to help support the overall initiatives by being engaged and dedicated to the profession. I would like to continue to serve on some of the committees that I am currently on and help bring more educational and networking opportunities for all involved. I would also like to be able to help grow our memberships and support the young professionals in our industry.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Maine Recreation & Parks Association At-Large Board Member (2023-Present)
Maine Recreation & Parks Association- DEI Committee Member (2022-Present)
MRPA Annual Conference Committee (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011)
MRPA Annual Conference Chair/Co-Chair (2010, 2011, 2023-25)
Statewide Summer Camp Training Committee (SMART/MRPA) 1st year
Maine Recreation & Parks Association- MRPA member (2007-Present)

Recreation Presentations/Guest Speaker/Round Table Panelist at:
MRPA Annual Spring Conference 2024- Director’s Round Table Discussion
MRPA 2023 Fall Workshop with DEI Committee: “What Does Leadership Look Like When You Focus on Belonging?”
MRPA Annual Spring Conference: Let’s Work Together; Outdoor Programs for Teens; New Youth Sports Programs: USTA Tennis w/Eric Driscoll, ER Lacrosse; Outdoor Programming for the Youth
SMART Summer Staff Training Presenter: How to handle the Bully; Outdoor Games K-6

Treasurer

Sabrina Best, CPRP
Deputy Director, Brunswick Parks & Recreation

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I would like to continue supporting my fellow collogues from around the State and be part of the State board leading the way for our profession. I would love to continue with the work and relationships I’ve been able to make over the years and moving MRPA forward showcasing Parks and Recreation as an essential service to the communities we serve.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
To support Parks and Rec Professionals & Industry across the State by providing resources, education, advocacy and networking opportunities.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would continue to support the association in the Treasurer role, having been involved with MRPA’s budget and finance process for a number of years. I would look to support the Finance goals outlined in the Strategic Plan.

Secretary

Shannon Rogers
Recreation Coordinator, Sanford Parks and Recreation Department

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I have served for the past 2 years. It keeps me involved, helps me learn, and most importantly keeps me networking and meeting new recreation professionals around not only Maine but the country.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
It gives the foundation for what recreation stands for. We are here to help when departments need advice and help.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Not only by attending board meetings, but also by joining committees and supporting where it is needed.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Through out the past 2.5 years, I have helped with Spring and Fall conference committees, briefly looked into the advocacy committee and awards committee as well. My first year, I also attended Capital Hill Day in Washington DC which I know the Board is looking into doing for some Advocacy members as well.

Southern Maine Rep

Nicole Drake
Recreation Director, South Berwick Recreation Department

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I have found MRPA to be an invaluable resource. I’ve enjoyed my committee involvement and this is a great opportunity to continue contributing to the association. I’m looking forward to working with the board and representing the southern region.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
In addition to advocacy at the state level, MRPA provides support and opportunities for recreation professionals through energizing, educating, and networking opportunities.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I look forward to supporting regional meetings and giving other recreational professionals in the southern region opportunities to get involved, make connections, and leverage all the support MRPA has to offer.

Eastern Maine Rep

Meghan Mazzella
Parks & Recreation Director, Orono

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I would like to serve on the board to support the MRPA community. The board is responsible for keeping the organization moving forward and dynamic. I would be eager to join this group that has such a positive influence on the professional development of the parks and recreation profession.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
The primary purpose of the organization is to enhance the Parks and Recreation professional community. This would be achieved by creating professional development opportunities, influencing legislature, and keeping our members updated on the latest advances in our profession.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Our executive board members lead the charge in driving the purpose of the organization. By representing my region they are able to hear a perspective from the eastern region to allow the team to make the best choices possible for the state. I would continue to be a resource for my MRPA region. It is important that different areas of Maine feel represented on the board and know they have a direct representative to talk to if they need anything.

Northern Maine Rep

Hillary Hallett
Recreation Director, Easton

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
Serving on the Board has granted me the opportunity to promote and be a voice for Northern Maine and our small community’s recreation departments. It is so important to promote the work being done by for our towns and cities throughout the entire state!

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
The purpose of MRPA is promote recreation and parks throughout the state; and sometimes we need to get creative to meet everyone’s needs.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Continuing to serve voice for northern Maine departments and encourage involvement with Maine Recreation and Parks.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
NMCRA Representative 2016-2025
Currently serving as co-coordinator Northern Maine Hot Shots State event
State Hot Shot coordinator 2017-2019
Treasurer of NMCRA 2015-current
Secretary of NMCRA 2010-2014

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Rep

Nicole Welch, CPRP
Recreation Director, Lewiston Recreation

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I have had the pleasure of watching and helping the Maine Recreation and Park Association change and adapt over the years, providing support to our members in whatever capacity is needed. Networking with like-minded colleagues from around the state, while also working to promote the industry, has been personally and professionally rewarding. I enjoy giving back to an association that has guided me towards new opportunities.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
There are so many passionate and dedicated professionals around the state, all of us working towards similar goals. The work that MRPA does to connect, educate, and advocate for its membership is essential in moving parks and recreation departments forward across the street. MRPA provides a place to share ideas, learn new trends, sharpen skills, compare notes, and share support on initiatives small and large.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I will be an active and engaged Board Member, as well as support initiatives of the DEI Committee.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Fall Workshop: 2014 to 2019, Chair 2017-2018
Annual Spring Conference Committee: Speaker Chair from 2015 to 2019, Conference Chair 2020-2022
Advocacy Committee: 2021-Current
Marketing Committee: 2024-Current
Awards Committee: 2026
MRPA Board Member: At Large 2018 to 2020, Vice President 2021-2022 and 2024-2025, President 2022-2024, Past President 2025-2026

At Large (3 Members)

Stephen Kramer
Recreation & Waterfront Manager, Scarborough Community Services

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I want to continue to serve as a way to connect and stay connected with my fellow recreational professionals.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
In my view, the association’s primary purpose is to provide networking, support, and educational opportunities for recreation professionals across the State of Maine.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would actively contribute to the planning, execution, and evaluation of networking and educational programs for the membership.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I have attended several conferences in the past as well as the Bill Bonneyman golf tournament. I have been involved int he Advocacy Committee in the last year and feel we are starting to make some great progress!

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Whitney Dorsett, CPRP, CYSA
Recreation Manager, South Portland Parks, Recreation and Waterfront

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I would like to express my interest in serving on the MRPA board. I am passionate about helping to provide a positive and welcoming environment for all Maine industry professionals.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
I believe the primary purpose of this association is to connect and support parks and recreation professionals across Maine in their roles.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If elected, I would continue my work on several MRPA committees. I am also committed to promoting the MRPA organization and its mission to schools throughout the state.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I attend the annual conference each year and serve on the conference committee, where I have taken a significant role in managing entertainment, vendors, and sponsorships.
Additionally, I serve as the co-chair of the student development committee. I also regularly attend SMART meetings and have been collaborating with the SMART representative to determine relevant topics and locations for future meetings.

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Tyler Stewart, CYSA
Programmer, Youth/Adults Sports & Fields, Biddeford Recreation

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I have learned through success and failure and had the opportunity to grow through opportunities presented to me by MRPA. I have been fortunate to work alongside many leaders in Parks & Recreation across the State of Maine. I want to provide and give back to membership, current & future, the same leadership that helped me grow as a recreation professional.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
Supporting membership through trainings, conferences, and providing resources to improve their professional development and day to day operations in their communities. When membership is supported and trained, that transfers to the communities and families that are directly served by parks & recreation professionals.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Continue to grow my involvement in committee work and assist the board with important tasks such as strategic planning, advocacy, and future initiatives that help grow Parks & Recreation in the State of Maine.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I have worked with MRPA since 2014 serving on several committees such as Fall Workshop, Annual Conference, and Advocacy assisting with planning and operations of events. I led programming for MRPA such as MLB Pitch, Hit, & Run regional events and the annual Bill Bonnyman Memorial Golf Tournament. I spent 1 year as the Vice President helping the board with strategic planning and goal setting. Most recently, I helped create and chair the MRPA Youth Sports Committee.

Parliamentarian

Karyn MacNeill
Director, Yarmouth Parks, Recreation, and Community Services

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I enjoy being part of a great group of advocates, intelligence, and passion for our profession. The MRPA Board of Directors is an amazing group of people and I find energy and excitement working with each person as we strive to be the best we can be for our professionals across the state.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
MRPA is designed to provide support and opportunities for the professionals in the field, and associated divisions, of parks and recreation. Through advocacy, educational opportunities, and networking, MRPA improves the lives of our state’s residents through the professionals who implement and manage our community programs and facilities.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I will support this board and bring as much history to the group to help guide decision-making processes throughout my term.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Since 2012, I filled a seat on the Board in various At-Large, VP, President, and Treasurer roles. For 8+ years, I assisted and worked on trainings and conferences serving as presenter, committee member, co-chair, and chair along the way. I have also volunteered with the golf tournament, former track and field meets, and other events sponsored by MRPA. My service on the Board is currently spent doing Treasurer duties and getting ready for the role’s transition.

Citizen Board Rep

Travis Grant
Recreation Consultant, Ben Shaffer Recreation

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
Serving on the MRPA Board of Directors is a goal that I have had in mind for a long time. I see it as an opportunity to give back to those who give so much of themselves to their communities. As a lifelong Mainer, and former public Parks and Recreation professional, there is no organization that I would rather give my time to. MRPA and the people that make up the association played a large role in my growth as a professional. Although I now serve Parks and Recreation on the commercial side, I would love the opportunity to work amongst those same individuals to help others find that same success.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
The primary purpose of the association is to aid in the growth of Parks and Rec professionals by providing educational opportunities and experiences to those in the industry. It is a resource for induvial communities to share their successes and short comings in hopes of providing insight to others.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If elected, I will work to be a consistent presence and voice at all meetings and conferences. I believe that I bring a unique perspective to the table having worked on both the public and private side of the profession.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
During my 5 years working in Maine Parks and Rec, I attended MRPA a handful of times as well as attended conferences such as NNERPC and NRPA. I also served on the Youth Sports Committee for MRPA.

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State Parks Rep

Jen DeRice
Asst. Parks Director, Portland Parks Recreation & Facilities

Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I have been a dedicated advocate and participant with MRPA for the past 30 years. I am seeking a seat on the board because I have seen the “MRPA effect” firsthand. The professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities provided by this board have been instrumental in my own career growth and, by extension, have enriched the communities I have served. I am eager to transition from a beneficiary of that work to a steward of it, ensuring the next generation of Maine’s recreation leaders has the same—if not better—opportunities to succeed. In my current role of assistant parks director for the City of Portland, I feel I sit at a unique vantage point. I am prepared to leverage the resources, professional networks, and urban scale experience I manage daily to benefit our statewide membership. I would aim to help move forward the goals of the association and promote more parks-related discussions and training. I value the work of the association’s board members and believe my career-long involvement is a testament to my belief that this association is the backbone of our profession in Maine.

In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
The primary purpose is to help parks and recreation professionals to advance their mission through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities.

If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If elected, I will focus my energy on advocating for parks initiatives, elevating the conversation around parks and essential infrastructure for community health and economic stability by promoting training opportunities that meet the needs of modern park professionals. For many years, the parks end of the equation, including the physical infrastructure, land management, and technical maintenance, has been sidelined by the recreation programming side. I’d like to help support and re-invigorate the effort to elevate parks-related issues, best practices, trainings, and advocacy to our membership.

Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I have been a dedicated advocate and participant with MRPA for the past 30 years serving on various committees (conference, fall workshop, advocacy, and scholarship committees, and awards chairperson), as well as the Board of Directors as a Member At-Large, SMART Rep, VP, and President. I feel that my passion for the profession, experience, and historical perspective will be an asset to the current BOD. I believe that understanding our past decisions – what worked, what didn’t, and why – is essential for reaching our current goals efficiently. Hopefully I can provide a “bridge” between history and our future.

President

Anthony Dahms, CPRP Director, Gray Recreation

Vice President

Angela O’Connor, CPRP, CPO Deputy Director, Portland Parks, Recreation & Facilities

Treasurer

Sabrina Best, CPRP Deputy Director, Brunswick Parks & Recreation

Secretary

Shannon Rogers Recreation Coordinator, Sanford Parks and Recreation Department

Southern Maine Rep

Nicole Drake Recreation Director, South Berwick Recreation Department