As the field continues to grow and adapt to a changing world, so must the NRPA Annual Conference. This year we have some new and some updated features that will inspire even the most experienced conference veteran. There will be so many great opportunities to network, learn and unwind with your colleagues.
Event Details
Sunday, September 22
Parks Build Community: Catherine ABC Park Dedication
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Each year, NRPA renovates a park in the Conference host city. This year, NRPA worked with Baltimore City Parks and Recreation and various top-rated companies to renovate Catherine ABC Park in the heart of Charm City. Thanks to the generous donations of several companies, this revitalized park will improve the local community and provide them with a great place for all ages. Join NRPA and the community for a celebration of this amazing new park. Learn more about Parks Build Community.
Monday, September 23
First-Time Attendee Networking Event
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | Phillips Seafood
Connect with other first-time attendees while you enjoy food, drinks and painting your own custom souvenir. Advanced registration required.
Tuesday, September 24
Opening General Session Featuring Cal Ripken Jr.
9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. | Baltimore Convention Center Ballroom, Level 400
The 2019 Opening General Session will feature Baseball legend, Cal Ripken, Jr. An inspirational speaker, Ripken, is the personification of leadership, commitment and excellence. From his own philanthropy with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and his dedication to helping children around the country, Ripken showcases how individuals can give back and create new opportunities for others. Baseball’s “Iron Man,” Ripken broke several professional baseball records during his 21 seasons, but none is as sacred as his consecutive games-played record. Shattering Lou Gehrig’s streak of 2,131 games by more than 500, Ripken displayed perseverance, endurance, and an everyday work ethic that endeared him to fans, transformed him into a national icon — and some argue, even saved baseball at its darkest moment. One of the most popular athletes of his generation, Ripken’s example inspires audience members of all ages to achieve their own brand of success. Join us on Tuesday for a keynote presentation that will inspire you to make your communities great places to live, followed by the presentation of the 2019 Gold Medal Awards.
Exhibit Hall Day 1
10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The Exhibit Hall is always an awe-inspiring site. With more than 400 exhibitors, this amusement park-like setting is filled with the latest and greatest products and services. Test out amazing cutting-edge technology solutions, playground equipment, athletic gear, aquatics products and other services from some of the top brands in the United States and internationally.
Student Pep Rally
5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel
It’s time to show your school spirit! NRPA is inviting students to a unique networking event at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel. Come mingle with other future park and recreation professionals and show off your school pride. Those who attend will have access to the NRPA Opening Reception immediately following the rally.
NRPA Opening Reception
(sponsored by GameTime)
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. | M&T Bank Stadium
Enjoy live music and Baltimore-inspired food and drinks while you celebrate with thousands of your peers at M&T Bank Stadium - home of the Baltimore Ravens.
Wednesday, September 25
Exhibit Hall Day 2
10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Visit the exhibitors you may have missed the first day or follow-up on a great product or service you found on day one. You can also enter to win gift cards or cash prizes. If you get your EXPOdition Scavenger Hunt card stamped by all participating exhibitors, you can enter to win many great prizes, including free registration to the 2020 NRPA Annual Conference in Orlando!
Best of the Best Awards Ceremony
6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Hilton Baltimore, Holiday Ballroom
At this annual ceremony, we recognize and celebrate the most inspirational people and programs by presenting the 2018 Innovation Awards, Spotlight Awards and the Park Champion of the Year Award. The newly accredited and re-accredited park and recreation agencies and academic programs, Young Professional Fellows, Diversity and Student Scholarship recipients, and professionals who have recently achieved their CPRP or CPRE designations will also be recognized. (Light reception to follow).
Thursday, September 26
Closing General Session Featuring Haben Girma and A1 Chops
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Baltimore Convention Center Ballroom, Level 400
There will be a lot to soak in all week at the Conference, but the Closing General Session will cap off your experience with a presentation by Haben Girma, one of the most determined and inspirational people you will ever meet, and an energetic performance by A1 Chops – a renowned drumming duo.
Friday, September 27
NRPA Capitol Hill Day
7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | Washington, DC
Since DC is only a short drive, this is a great opportunity for you to meet your members of Congress and advocate for parks and recreation. Transportation, lunch and advocacy training included. Advanced registration required.
Events, dates and times are subject to change.