In Sage Learn’s seven months as NRPA’s government affairs manager, she’s already made a big impact for the association in public policy. Often spending four days a week advocating for parks and recreation on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies, Learn has especially focused on health and wellness issues and has developed a comprehensive health and wellness platform for NRPA.

Prior to joining NRPA’s staff in September 2013, Learn worked for nearly a decade in public policy with a focus on health and wellness. An Oregon native, she earned her B.S. degree in political science and government from Portland State University, where she also ran track and field, focusing on the 1500 meters and cross-country races. Upon graduation in 2004, she immediately moved to Washington, D.C., for a position in Sen. Ron Wyden’s (D-OR) office. Wyden is known in the Senate as a leader on health issues, so Learn’s time in his office gave an initial professional edge to her personal interests in fitness and health.

After two years, Learn moved on to Nike’s Government Affairs office, where she served as policy coordinator. She then consulted for a variety of sports and health-focused organizations for a little more than a year before coming on board at NRPA.

Looking toward the future, Learn hopes to help protect funding for parks and recreation, craft new legislation, and continue elevating parks and recreation in the public health conversation. “I work in this field because I have a passion for what I do and can make a difference to help provide more opportunities for youth and adults to be healthy and active,” she says.

Learn lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband, Dale.  Both are competitive runners and can often be found in their spare time running in the parks and trails throughout the D.C. area.

Danielle Taylor is the Senior Editor of Parks & Recreation Magazine.