When I think about the NRPA Annual Conference, I instantly smile.
This fall, I will attend my fourth conference in Philadelphia, and I feel incredibly grateful. I was fortunate to attend my first conference in October 2023. I walked in with a mix of fear of the unknown, anxiety about expectations, and excitement that I would finally experience it all firsthand.
Overwhelmed doesn’t quite cover it. I remember sitting in the opening session thinking, 7,000+ people who love what they do are all in this room.
That first year, I attended great sessions, met a few new faces, and finally connected in person with my Leadership Development Network (LDN) peers after years of meeting virtually. I left feeling inspired and energized, with a clearer sense of belonging in the profession.
By my second conference in Atlanta in 2024, my mindset had shifted. I arrived on a mission. As I prepared to chair the Wisconsin State Conference in February 2025, I told myself: go big or go home. I wanted meaningful connections, tangible ideas and potential speakers to bring back to Wisconsin.
I planned my schedule intentionally, attending sessions, introducing myself to new people, and stepping outside my comfort zone, including going to the RecLess social after being a virtual fan for over a year.
That decision paid off. A chance moment, turning around while grabbing a beverage, led to meeting a few familiar faces whom I had by chance virtually met a time or two before, and got a hug from Neelay Bhatt. That simple interaction turned into a meaningful conversation, a memorable photo, and an evening full of new connections. Shout out to Nathan Fort, Hashim Taylor, and Mitchell Richardson (not pictured).
That year, I also attended a session called "Connection is Key" by Chase Ellis and Angela Summers. The space they created allowed for honest, meaningful conversations that we don’t always make time for as professionals. I remember waiting in line afterward just to thank Chase. That moment reinforced for me how powerful intentional connection can be.
Pictured: Trista and a colleague in the exhibit hall at the 2025 NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando.
By the time I attended the conference in Orlando, I had a little more confidence and a plan. The Wisconsin State Conference was coming together, with speakers I had met through NRPA, and I understood how to make the most of the experience. I prioritized sessions, raced to an unplanned lunch, and reminded myself not to hesitate when starting conversations with someone new.
That year also brought new opportunities. I co-presented “Conference 101” with Michael Beidenstein, NRPA’s senior manager of membership. (yes, in a Little Sebastian shirt). I stayed after to meet several new professionals and share more about my experience as a first-time attendee. I strengthened relationships within LDN and had the chance to meet mentors in person, including Katy Keller, who had supported me leading up to Orlando.
At this point, it’s hard to fully summarize how important the NRPA Annual Conference has become for me. Of course, it provides valuable education and CEUs, but more than that, it has become a space for intentional growth, connection and inspiration.
Each year, I leave with new ideas, renewed energy and a stronger sense of purpose.
This year in Philadelphia, I’m excited to continue that journey. I’ll be presenting alongside my friend and fellow LDN committee member, Keith Cox, and stepping into a new role leading the LDN group through the conference in 2027. I look forward to welcoming new faces, reconnecting with friends, cheering on colleagues and friends during their sessions, and embracing whatever unexpected moments the conference brings.
Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that some of the most impactful experiences at the NRPA Annual Conference happen in the moments you never plan for.
Registration for the 2026 NRPA Annual Conference is open now. Register today and I hope to see you in Philadelphia!
Trista Taylor, CPRP, CPO is the deputy parks and recreation director for Village of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin.