Board members will be voted on at the Annual Meeting on March 17th, 2025
President
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 focus on ensuring all board seats being filled, committees are meeting and are productive, and the organizations goals are being worked on.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
* President – 2024 to present
* Vice President – 2023 to 2024
* Secretary – 2018 to 2022
* MRPA State Hot Shot Coordinator – 2008 to 2013
Vice President
Anthony Dahms, CPRP
Director, Gray Recreation
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I believe in the MRPA mission. I enjoy the challenge of supporting the professionals that go out and serve the different communities throughout the state.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
Being a helpful resource to the Parks and Recreation professionals as well as advocacy at the state level.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would make an impact by supporting various committees, the work of the President of the Board of Directors, and bringing my prior experience in non-profit board work.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I’ve been an MRPA member for over 10 years. I have served the MRPA board of directors as the Southern Maine Regional Representative for the last two years. I served on the Fall Workshop Committee this past year. I’ve been lucky to attend the MRPA state conference most years during my career.
Treasurer
Karyn MacNeill, CPRP
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 work as the Treasurer (doing treasurer duties) for this association 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 have had a seat on the Board in various At-Large, VP, and President 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 now spent mostly doing Treasurer duties and a couple roles as a subcommittee member.
Secretary
Shannon Rogers
Assistant Recreation Director/Program Coordinator, Town of Berwick Parks and Recreation Department
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I am the current Secretary for MRPA and would love to continue.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
To serve the State of Maine through the eyes of Parks and Recreation professionals.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Attend conferences and monthly meetings to assist MRPA a successful program.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I have served on numerous committees, am on my 2nd conference committee and a few other committees
Southern Maine Rep
Write In
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.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Eastern Maine Rep. 2022, 2023, 2024
Spring Conference Committee 2023, 2024, 2025
Student Engagement Co-Chair 2025
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 2016-2024
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
Gail Platts, CPRP
Active Adult Program Coordinator, Scarborough Community Services
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I’ve appreciated being able to work alongside the dedicated MRPA board members the past two years, and I would be honored to continue the efforts to support the organization’s mission and our ongoing work in promoting belonging, access, and inclusion within the field of parks and recreation.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
I believe the purpose of the Maine Recreation and Park Association is to build community among parks and recreation professionals and serve as an advocate and as a resource for individuals and departments responsible for delivering parks and recreation services.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I am interested in continuing to work on DEI initiatives, to help people in our agencies and in our communities feel seen, welcome and valued. I am eager to share my ongoing professional development, and be a resource for others.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
* Spring conference planning committee
* Conference presenter
* DEI Committee 2022- present
* DEI representative MRPA Board 2023, 2024
* 2022 NRPA Safe Zone Training
* 2023 NRPA Equity in Recreation Certificate 1
* 2024 NRPA Equity in Recreation Certificate 2
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 serve on the MRPA Board of Directors to provide an insight on departments that are in the unique position that operate waterfronts. I also want an opportunity to network as well as provide networking opportunities for our membership.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
In my view, the primary purpose of the association is to provide networking opportunities, support and educational opportunities for other recreation professionals in the State of Maine.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would be actively involved in helping plan, execute and evaluate networking and educational opportunities and 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 am trying to get Scarborough more involved with MRPA and as a manager in the department I feel I should be actively involved to help motivate other staff members to become more involved.
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Gary Colello, CPRP
Director, Bridgton Recreation
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I want to serve on Board of Directors to advocate for the parks and recreation profession and support professionals by expanding training and development opportunities. Parks and recreation play a vital role in building strong, healthy communities, and I believe that investing in the growth and education of professionals will enhance the quality and impact of these services across Maine. By serving on the MRPA Board, I aim to advocate for funding, promote professional development, and ensure that recreation professionals have the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
I believe the primary purpose of MRPA is to support parks and recreation professionals in their professional development by advocating, providing educational training opportunities, and fostering networking and collaboration. These efforts enhance the quality of life in our local communities and, ultimately, across the state of Maine through our beautiful parks and the great recreational opportunities we all provide.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If reelected to the MRPA Board of Directors, I would support its mission by advocating for the profession, continue developing training opportunities, and strengthening networking among recreation professionals. I would work to promote the value of parks and recreation, develop professional training programs, foster collaboration, and advocate for funding to ensure recreation remains a vital part of Maine’s communities.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Board Member At Large 2021 to present
Fall Workshop Chair 2020 to present
Scholarship Committee Chair 2021 to present
Advocacy Committee 2024 to present
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Angela O’Connor, CPRP. CPO
Deputy Director, Portland Parks, Recreation & Facilities
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
Being a Parks and Recreation Professional is not just a job for me but a passion. I think it is important for the MRPA organization to continue to help, support and grow Parks and Recreation Professionals within our state. I would like to continue to help and support the initiatives that have been put forth and to share new initiatives in the up and coming year. I have an understanding of both Parks and Recreation and can be an advocate and help bring a proactive, collaborative, and understanding approach of both to the table.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
It is hard point out what MRPA’s primary purpose is because it has so many purposes that help with our profession. MRPA is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all through the advancement of the parks and recreation profession in Maine. MRPA serves as an incredible resource for our professionals from workshops and conferences to advocacy and DEI initiatives. MRPA allows for professional networking to happen so we can support each other throughout the state. There are just so many positives that help us as professionals grow in our field.
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 to include more park professionals to the MRPA organization.
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
Parliamentarian
Write In
Citizen Board Rep
Phil Spiller
Recreation & Conservation Community Volunteer, Westbrook
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I’d like to take my community citizen activity to the state level, with one of my greatest passions – promoting and enhancing a sense of place in communities through improving public gathering spaces like parks and recreation spaces and programs. A former Navy officer and pilot – and now Jetblue Captain – by trade, volunteering is my real passion.
In my hometown of Westbrook, I served a term on the Recreation & Conservation Commission from 2016-2021. During this time the commission made significant strides on many local projects, adopted its first-ever WRCC Strategic Plan, and undertook a robust open space cataloguing process. During that time I engaged with state, regional, and federal recreational officials and colleagues. Including MRPA conferences, I have attended 10 state/regional/national Recreation & Parks Conferences – often at my own expense – in an effort to help improve Westbrook’s prospects for its open spaces and recreational & trails programs and standing on a state, regional, and national level. On an even more specific level, beginning in late 2015 I was asked by the City of Westbrook to help uncover and catalogue the historical grant programming and construction of Westbrook’s federal Land & Water Conservation Fund sites. And help develop a plan to re-engage the Westbrook community within the LWCF program, which had lay dormant in Westbrook since the late 1980’s. With the collaborative efforts of the municipality, local businesses & organizations, and its citizenry, we were able to help orchestrate & author the successful pursuit of a large local LWCF project despite numerous obstacles – Westbrook’s first successful award in 30 years. Most importantly, those efforts have resulted in a “good standing” status with the Maine Bureau of Parks & Lands for Westbrook – opening the door to pursue future LWCF projects as well as federal RTP (Recreational Trails Program) and the new MTP grant projects – without penalties. Even though I have not been a commissioner since January 2022, I have still attended nearly every meeting to assist the commission when necessary. I believe my passion for programs like the LWCF, and perseverance to see project come to fruition – would serve me well in a citizen Board Rep capacity.
Additionally, I have maintained my membership in NRPA (National Rec & Parks Association), and NRPA hold certificates in Waterpark/Splashpad Planning and in Waterpark/Splashpad Design. I have a strong track record in volunteering in non-rec&park capacities as well. I just began my 2nd term serving on Windham’s Natural Resources Advisory Council, am currently President of the Westbrook-Gorham Rotary Club, and serve as 1st Vice Commander of Westbrook American Legion Post 62. I enthusiastically help emcee the Westbrook Together Days Parade and other WTD activities, the annual Westbrook Memorial Day ceremony, and the Westbrook Veteran’s Day ceremony. I am the founder and President of Westbrook’s newest non-profit – the Friends of the Warren Rec Area (an LWCF area), as well as co-chair of the Cornell University Alumni Club of Maine. With these just being some of my volunteer activities and passions – also being one of the founders/Past Presidents of Discover Downtown Westbrook as well as Westbrook’s recent rep on the Visit Portland Board of Directors – I was honored with the Presidential Volunteer Service Awards in 2015,2016,2017,2018, 2019, and 2020 – as well as the Jetblue Community Service Awardee of the Year for 2017-2018.
If considered for selection, I would be honored and humbled to faithfully serve as the MRPA Citizen Board Rep for the coming term!
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
MRPA is the conduit through which state and federal recreation & park initiatives, grants, funding, training, and development programs funnel to individual municipalities to strengthen their individual programming – and through which municipalities can learn and share with each other challenges and successes.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would do my best to attend in person / zoom meetings and training sessions and conferences, and offer a unique perspective being an airline pilot and visiting many successful parks and recreation programs in my travels.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Although I had a break in membership for a few years during COVID, I believe I’ve been a member in MRPA for most years since attending my first fall conference in 2016. Recently attended the fall 2024 conference in Lewiston, and am signed up for my 4th Spring conference coming up at the Samoset Resort from Mar 16-18, 2025.