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?
To participate in the promotion and advancement of our profession; to provide my short, recent history of MRPA; and to give back to our professional association.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
MRPA provides numerous resources to professionals and through networking & educational opps, supports its members. When MRPA is serving its members, it works to meet the mission to improve the quality of life for all.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I will continue to guide MRPA’s fiscal responsibilities and work as part of the team to advance this wonderful life we know through parks and recreation.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
Current MRPA Treasurer, MRPA President, Vice-President, At-Large BOD member, Annual Conference Chair, Fall Workshop subcommittee member, Advocacy sub-committee member, State-side legislative Advocacy member, Golf Tourney 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
Anthony Dahms
Director, Gray Recreation
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I’ve enjoyed the networking and hearing about what people have for successes/challenges. Trying to create meaningful dialogue that supports recreation professionals in their work is rewarding.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
To support parks and recreation professionals.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would continue to work with those in the Southern Maine region to provide several meetings throughout the year on different topics.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
I’ve been a member of MRPA for 10+ years, I’ve enjoyed all the annual conferences I’ve been able to attend. This past year I was able to serve on the MRPA board as the Southern Maine Representative.
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 continue to be a part of 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 MRPA is to support all types of recreation as well as public use of parks and lands. This is supported by the board encouraging relationships between professionals, providing educational opportunities, and keeping Maine informed about new trends and legislation.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would support this purpose by providing perspectives from my experience working in Orono and connecting with other departments in my area.
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
Spring Conference Planning Committee 2022, 2023, 2024
Northern Maine Rep
VACANT
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’m eager to join the MRPA Board of Directors because I’m passionate about the Parks and Recreation field and eager to give back to the profession. MRPA and its members have been a crucial part of my professional development, and I’m motivated to give back and support fellow members in their journey.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
No matter what anyone says, park and recreation professionals are the backbone of our communities, essential towards fostering growth, health, vibrancy, and the overall well-being of our communities. In Maine, MRPA serves as a platform that unites professionals from cities and towns of all sizes, providing a framework for enhancing, educating, collaborating, developing, and supporting park and recreation professionals, as we continue to offer these vital services to our community members.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I would help this purpose by staying involved in various areas of the association and continue to find ways to support and advocate for parks and recreation professionals.
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 MRPA member for 8 years. I have been an At Large Board Member for the past 2 years, I have been the Fall Workshop Chair for the past 3 years, and Scholarship Committee Chair for the past 2 years. I attend most of MRPA events on a regular basis, and most recently I have started to become involved with the Advocacy Committee.
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Anthony Johnson, CPRP
Deputy Director of Recreation, South Portland Parks, Recreation & Waterfront
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
MRPA has been a tremendous resource to me throughout my career, both personally and professionally. By continuing to serve on the board, I hope to help support the association as it grows so parks and recreation professionals throughout the state can continue to reap the many benefits that it provides.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
MPRA has many purposes, but serving as a resource for professionals throughout the state is at the top of the list. Through providing professional training opportunities to serving as a catalyst for keeping us all connected and supported through membership, MRPA plays a vital role in continuing to move the field of parks and recreation forward in Maine.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
To be an advocate for Parks & Recreation, to help promote the image of MRPA, and to assist with events and programs that benefit young professionals in the field such as our annual golf tournament.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
2019 – 2024 Bill Bonnyman Golf Tournament Volunteer
2012 – 2016 Spring Conference Vendor Chair
2010 – 2014 Aquafina Pitch, Hit & Run State Coordinator
2010 – 2011 Spring Conference Planning Committee
2009 – 2010 Fundraising Volunteer, Bill Bonnyman Annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser
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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?
As a current member of the MRPA Board of Directors, I would like to continue to serve on the board to help grow our memberships and bring more educational opportunities to help all of us grow as park and recreation professionals. I believe that with my background and experience in working in rural and urban parks and recreation departments in different states (CO, MA, ME) that I can come to the table with many different perspectives. I would love to continue to help support parks and recreation professionals in this role.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
There are so many purposes of MRPA it’s hard to just name one. MRPA is a voice for park and recreation professionals to advocate for improving the quality of life for all, whether it be a recreational program or developing and sustaining parks and trails. MRPA helps our members network and provides opportunity for growth and development. MRPA is an incredible resource that we can tap into and allows us to elevate the communities that we work in to the next level.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
If I were elected again, I would continue to work with the Annual Spring Conference Committee and continue to advocate for sessions that will bring knowledge and expertise of our field to not just in recreation, but parks as well. I would love to keep working with our DEI committee to continue doing the amazing work we have been doing. I believe that education, networking and staying current with the trends in our field is the most important thing that a parks and recreation professional can do. I can help support the purposes by being a life long student by continuing to attend outside educational opportunities that allow me to share current information to support our organization and and state.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
MRPA At-Large Board Member (Present)
MRPA DEI Committee Member (Present)
MRPA Chair/Co-Chair Annual Spring Conference (2010, 2011, 2023-24)
MRPA Annual Spring Conference Committee Member (2008-2011, 2023-24)
MRPA Fall Workshop 2023 Group Presentation (DEI Committee) “What Does Leadership Look Like?”
MRPA Annual Spring Conference 2010 Presenter
” Let’s Work Together” ” Outdoor Programs for Teens.”
MRPA Annual Spring Conference 2011 Presenter
“New Youth Sports Programs: USTA Tennis w/ Eric Driscoll, Youth Lax”/ “Outdoor Programming for Youth”
MRPA Representative- Maine Outdoor Coalition Steering Committee (2012-2014)
Parliamentarian
Douglas Beck
Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, Maine BPL Grants & Community Recreation
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I feel there is value in being able to provide context to association operations through a filter of years’ worth of experience serving in various capacities with the association. Additionally, I hope to continue to work with fellow board and association members to improve the status of the parks and recreation field, elevating the profession to where it is perceived as the “essential service” it is.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
To promote the awareness of the profession, and the essential services our profession provides, and to provide guidance, support and resources to our members in their pursuit of these essential services.
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
I will continue to look for opportunities in which MRPA can engage with efforts and initiatives that are beneficial to the association but that also provide a platform to raise the profile of the association, its members and the essential services this sector provides.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
If elected, I will embark on my ninth consecutive year as parliamentarian. My service to this association started when I proposed that MRPA create its own summer track and field program, a concept to better serve the participants and our association and one that never quite got enough traction. That led to a decade’s long string of service to MRPA that included service at various times as member, chair and or co-chair of the legislative committee, conference committee, fall workshop committee, board member, vice president, president, executive director, parliamentarian and now also elder statesman.
Citizen Board Rep
Alan Grady
Regional Sales Representative, Musco Lighting
Why do you want to serve on the MRPA Board of Directors?
I think it’s great to share my experience as a prior Parks and Rec director and in my current role as a sales rep in the recreation field. I enjoy keeping up to date with recreation trends, helping to run the golf tournament and the state conference.
In your view, what is the primary purpose of the association?
To keep up with national parks and recreation trends, technologies and provide opportunity and education for state recreation departments (scholarships, trainings, etc).
If elected, how would you help support that purpose?
Continue to attend meetings, run the golf tournament and assist with the state conference.
Please describe your past experience or involvement with MRPA. For example, committee involvement, membership, attendance at special events, conferences, training, etc.
This would be my third year as the citizen rep. I was also the SMART rep in 2009.