Welcome, campers! We’re so glad you made it to this year’s conference. Consider this page is your virtual field guide for the week. Explore speaker bios, session schedules, bus details, sponsors, and more. Keep it handy as you find your path through keynotes, breakouts, and campfire adventures.
Download the Camp Itinerary HERE!
Trail Leaders
Miss Shannan Paul
Miss Shannan Paul is a Twin Cities radio and television host, nationally recognized comedian, keynote speaker, and event emcee known for her dynamic blend of humor, heart, and cultural insight. She uses storytelling and comedy to foster connection, challenge bias, and encourage personal growth. Miss Shannan has shared the stage with legendary performers, emceed events for major nonprofits and corporations, and is the creator of Comedy Through the Chaos, a live show and upcoming series that explores how we find laughter in life’s messiest moments. Whether leading conversations on cultural sensitivity or personal empowerment, she brings warmth, wit, and wisdom to every room she steps into.
Title: Cultural Sensitivity for the Accidentally Insensitive (Wednesday Keynote)
Holly Huso
Raised on a farm in Aneta, North Dakota, Holly’s foundation of grit and resilience was shaped early. Holly played college basketball at North Dakota State, coached Division 1 Women's Basketball (North Carolina State University, University of Northern Iowa, University of Wisconsin - Green Bay), and lead St. Louis Park School District (St. Louis Park, MN) sports programs as the Athletic Director. launching a 23-year career in healthcare sales leadership (Biologics, Mayo Clinic, Rayus Radiology, Alliance HealthCare Services). Today, as President and Founder of The Haymaker Sales & Leadership, she equips teams to lead with clarity, coach with intention, and deliver impact that lasts.
Title: Cultivating a Coaching Mindset (Thursday Keynote)
SESSION 1
Elli Agather brings over seven years of experience to the Fargo Park District, where she has contributed her skills and expertise across a variety of human resources roles. A graduate of North Dakota State University with a degree in Management Communication and Web Design, Elli combines a strong background in project management with a genuine passion for supporting both staff and the community. She thrives on finding ways to make a positive impact and help others succeed.
Dr. Joe Zeleznik has been NDSU Extension Forestry Specialist since 2002, providing statewide education on tree health, diversification, and the challenges of growing trees in prairie environments. He teaches two courses, researches dendrochronology (tree rings), and shares practical insights to help communities, landowners, and professionals maintain healthy, resilient tree resources.
Shelby Larsen has been with the Fargo Park District for over two years, where she leads safety and wellness initiatives while supporting staff development and organizational growth. She holds a degree in Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Management from Concordia College and a graduate degree in Educational Leadership, specializing in adult learning, from Minnesota State University Moorhead. Shelby is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships, promoting continued learning, and building a positive workplace culture.
Maria Helen Rue is the founder of Impact Social, a creative agency launched in 2018 to help small businesses showcase their brand through authentic imagery and storytelling. A lifelong photographer, Maria combines her passion for visual storytelling with her experience as a small business owner to provide practical tools and strategies that help organizations connect with their communities in meaningful ways.
Bryce Lawrence is the Sports Center Facility Manager at Fargo Park District, overseeing operations and maintenance to ensure safe, vibrant recreation spaces. He previously held leadership roles at Suite Shots and Scheels Arena and holds a Business Administration degree from NDSU. Bryce brings extensive experience in facility management and a strong focus on customer service and community engagement.
Paul Wixo is the Partner Success Manager at the Fargo Parks Sports Center, where he works with individuals and organizations to create seamless events and experiences. A member of the facility’s leadership team, he helps guide its growth and success. Paul previously worked with North Dakota State University Athletics and holds a bachelor’s degree from there. He and his wife Lisa live in Horace, North Dakota, and enjoy spending time with their children and grandson, Oliver.
SESSION 2
Laurens Robinson is a trail builder, cyclist, and father of two, serving as President of the Fargo Moorhead Trailbuilders to build, maintain, and promote local natural surface trails. Originally from South Africa, he has lived in Fargo for 22 years and is a proud IRONMAN finisher. After a successful career in international sales, Laurens focuses on volunteering, outdoor recreation, and fostering connected communities, combining his love of adventure, family, and the outdoors.
Mason Erstad is a Senior Audit Associate with Eide Bailly in Fargo, North Dakota. Since joining the firm in January 2020, Mason has focused primarily on government clients, including cities, school districts, housing authorities, and other local government entities. He also works with the Affordable Housing and Real Estate Group, providing specialized support and insight in these areas. Mason is a graduate of North Dakota State University, earning his degree in December 2019, and brings a commitment to accuracy, collaboration, and practical solutions to every engagement.
Jason T. West is the Parks and Recreation Director for St. Louis Park, Minnesota, overseeing 54 parks and municipal facilities, including the city’s outdoor aquatic center and Westwood Hills Nature Center. He manages 50 full-time staff and hundreds of seasonal employees, and has led over $20 million in facility construction. With 25+ years of service, Jason has received the Jack Niles Award, Leadership Award, and multiple Presidential Awards from the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association.
Jennifer Fink is the Director of Parks and Recreation for New Brighton, Minnesota, with over 20 years of experience in the field. She has overseen $17 million in park improvements and serves as President of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation, Chair of Northeast Youth and Family Services, and board member for the Twin Cities Gateway Convention and Visitors Bureau. Her work has been recognized with the Dorothea Nelson and Horizon Awards from the Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association.
SESSION 3
Ashley Magner, MA is the Corporate Wellness and Enrichment and Memory Care Services Director for Edgewood Healthcare, supporting 65 Assisted Living and Memory Care communities. She develops programs that keep seniors active and engaged, while also providing training and resources for memory care. With nine years at Edgewood and prior experience at the Alzheimer’s Association and in skilled nursing, Ashley brings innovative approaches to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s communities.
Allison Shafir is a Certified Playground Safety Inspector with over 12 years of experience in the commercial play industry. She began her career designing dry playgrounds and transitioned into splash pad and waterpark design six years ago. As a Design & Specification Specialist at Waterplay, Allison collaborates with architects, landscape architects, and aquatic designers to develop custom solutions that meet the unique needs of each community. She is passionate about creating playful, inventive, and inclusive splash play experiences for all types of aquatic spaces.
Kelsey Schaunaman has been with Edgewood Healthcare for nine years, currently serving as Corporate Sales and Public Relations Director. She oversees sales training, admissions, and community relations, supporting smooth transitions for families and helping sales directors build meaningful connections. Kelsey is passionate about connecting people and creating opportunities that enhance the lives of seniors and their families.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Tuesday, September 30
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11:00 AM Lunch at Rose Creek
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12:00 PM Golf Tournament at Rose Creek Golf Course
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12:45 PM Shuttle to Orchard Glen Pick from Holiday Inn
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1:00 PM Orchard Glen & Cider Tour at Orchard Glen Park
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2:00 PM Fargo Movie at Fargo Theatre – Arrive early for free snacks!
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5:00 PM Shuttle to Trollwood Pickup at Holiday Inn
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5:30 PM Social + Dinner at Trollwood Park
Day 2 – Wednesday, October 1
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6:30 AM Shuttle Begins to Fargo Parks Sports Center
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7:00 AM Breakfast & Past Presidents Breakfast
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8:00 AM Hat Bar Opens
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8:15 AM Keynote #1: Cultural Sensitivity for the Accidentally Insensitive | Miss Shannan Paul
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9:15 AM Break/Vendors - Professional Headshots
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10:00 AM Bus Tours: Conservation | Facilities | Programs, Events, and Marketing
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11:30 AM Break/Vendors
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12:00 PM Lunch with Cohort
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1:00 PM Panels
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2:00 PM Vendors
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2:30 PM Breakout Session #1
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3:30 PM Breakout Session #2
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6:00 PM Social Hour at Holiday Inn
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6:30 PM Awards Banquet
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8:00 PM After Social: Spirits Loungs & Casino at Holiday Inn
Day 3 – Wednesday, October 2
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7:30 AM Breakfast at Holiday Inn
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8:00 AM Annual Meeting
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9:00 AM Keynote #2
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10:00 AM Breakout Session #3
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11:00 AM Grab and Go Lunches
Session Map
Maintenance | Facilities
Room: Marsh Mclennan - 113
This panel will highlight best practices in facility upkeep, contractor use, technology, safety, staffing, vandalism prevention, and strategies for managing operations/budgets.
Programming | Events | Marketing
Room: Community Room 114
This panel will cover new programming, inclusivity, staffing, partnerships, marketing, and creative strategies for parks and recreation.
Directors
Room: Iceplex Tournament Room
An open discussion panel exclusively for directors to share insights, challenges, and ideas.
Conservation | Forestry
Room: Multipurpose Room 225
This panel will cover environmental trends, tree and prairie management, horticulture practices, workforce challenges, and the tools and technology shaping the future .
HR | Finance
Room: Alex Stern 112
This panel will dive into budgeting under tax caps, accounting tools, foundations, staff retention, HR best practices, and effective leadership and communication strategies.
Effective Meetings: How to Plan Them, How to Lead Them, How to Make them Count!
Speaker(s): Holly Huso
Room: 112
Meetings can either waste time or move work forward, and the difference often comes down to preparation and leadership. In this presentation, you’ll learn how to design meetings with purpose, lead them with clarity, and ensure they result in meaningful outcomes. Participants will receive a practical worksheet to guide their planning and will engage in small group discussions to practice new approaches. You’ll leave with tools and strategies to make every meeting count.
Preparing for Emerald Ash Borer
Speaker(s): Dr. Joseph Zeleznik
Room: 225
The Emerald Ash Borer has recently been identified in North Dakota and Moorhead, Minnesota, and communities need to be prepared for its arrival. In this presentation, you’ll learn practical strategies for managing this destructive pest, including how to identify the insect and its host trees, conduct a tree inventory, and implement management options before, during, and after an infestation. Attendees will leave with actionable guidance to protect their ash trees and maintain healthy urban forests in the face of this ongoing challenge.
FORGE Internship Program: Growing Talent and Strengthening Teams
Speaker(s): Elli Agather and Shelby Larson
Room: 224
The Fargo Park District’s FORGE Internship Program is designed to foster growth for both students and the organization. By providing emerging professionals with hands-on experience, skill development, and career exploration opportunities, the program builds meaningful connections and prepares participants for future success. At the same time, it brings fresh perspectives, new energy, and a sustainable pipeline of talent to the Park District. In this presentation, you’ll learn how FORGE has been structured, the impact it has made, and how its model can inspire similar programs in your organization.
Short-Form Video Made Simple
Speaker(s): Maria Rue
Room: 114
Short-form video is the most powerful way to reach your community online but for many small organizations, it can feel daunting. In this session, we’ll break down how parks staff can use just a smartphone to capture quick, engaging videos that keep residents informed and excited. You’ll walk away with content inspiration, practical strategies for creating short-form videos, and confidence to start creating content that truly connects.
Sports Facility Management
Speaker(s): Bryce Lawrence
Room: 113
This session offers an in-depth look at the Fargo Parks Sports Center, exploring the facility’s layout, key features, and daily operations. Attendees will gain valuable insights into managing and maintaining a multi-use sports complex, including common challenges and effective solutions. The session will conclude with an open Q&A, allowing participants to share ideas and ask questions about sports facility management.
Standing in Your Spotlight: Taking Center Stage in Your Life
Speaker(s): Shannan Paul
Room: 112
This empowering session challenges attendees to quiet their inner critic and step boldly into leadership and visibility, especially when self-doubt tries to take the mic. With humor, heart, and actionable tools, Miss Shannan shares how to stop dimming your light and start owning your story. Perfect for those ready to reclaim their confidence and lean into their unique brilliance.
The Red Thread: Trails that Weave our Parks and People Together
Speaker(s): Laurens Robinson
Room: 113
The Fargo Moorhead Trailbuilders, a dedicated volunteer group, are transforming the landscape along the Red River by creating and maintaining bike trails that connect communities to the outdoors. In partnership with Fargo and Moorhead Parks, private landowners, and local businesses, these trails are built through community effort and sustained by donations. In this presentation, you’ll explore the history, current initiatives, and future plans for trail development, while learning how collaboration, volunteerism, and strategic partnerships play a vital role in providing safe, accessible, and engaging outdoor experiences for all.
Building Strong Partnerships Between DMOs and Park and Recreation Departments
Speaker(s): Jennifer Fink, Jason West
Room: 114
The partnership between Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and Parks and Recreation Departments is a driving force behind successful sports tourism. With more than 80 percent of events taking place at park facilities, collaboration is not only valuable but necessary for long-term success. In this presentation, you’ll gain insight into why these partnerships matter, the challenges that can arise when missions and priorities differ, and strategies for building stronger connections. The session will highlight ways to strengthen communication, share resources, and develop cooperative approaches that benefit both visitors and residents.
Financial Statement Review and Audit Preparation
Speaker(s): Mason Erstad
Room: 224
Understanding governmental financial statements is essential for effective oversight and decision-making, yet these documents can often feel complex and overwhelming. In this presentation, you’ll gain a clear overview of the key sections of governmental financial statements, along with guidance on what to look for when performing a review. The session will also cover strategies for preparing for an audit and making the most of the audit process, helping you approach financial reporting with greater confidence and clarity.
Menu Mastery: Using Food Innovation and Distribution Partnerships to Grow Sales
Speaker(s): Food & Beverage Team
Room: 225
Food trends can boost both sales and guest experiences. In this session, Cash Wa shares strategies for choosing appealing, cost-effective menu items and working with distributors to streamline operations and maximize revenue.
Keeping Seniors Active and Engaged
Speaker(s): Ashley Magner, Kelsey Schaunaman
Room: Harvest Hall 3
Seniors thrive when they remain active, connected, and supported, but achieving this requires creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. In this presentation, you’ll learn how to design meaningful activities that keep seniors engaged, leverage local resources to provide tools for staying active, and build partnerships with community organizations to promote healthier lifestyles. You’ll leave with practical strategies, inspiring examples, and actionable ideas to strengthen the connections between recreation, seniors, and the communities they live in.
Refreshing Recreation: Splash Pads
Speaker(s): Alison Shafir
Room: Harvest Hall 4
Splash pads offer a fun, safe, and accessible way for communities to enjoy water recreation, but designing and maintaining these spaces takes careful planning and strategy. In this presentation, you’ll explore best practices for creating splash pads that are engaging, inclusive, and sustainable. Topics include design considerations, safety and maintenance, community programming, and ways to maximize impact for all ages. You’ll leave with practical insights, creative ideas, and strategies to enhance water play experiences that bring joy and connection to your community.
Creating Inclusive Parks: Small Changes, Big Impact
Speaker(s): Kayla Farahmand
Room: Harvest Hall 2
Parks are meant to be places where everyone feels a sense of belonging, yet individuals with developmental disabilities often encounter barriers that limit their experiences. In this presentation, we will explore why inclusive design and programming in parks is essential, the challenges families frequently face, and how small changes can create big impact. You’ll leave with practical strategies to make parks more welcoming, from enhancing accessibility to fostering spaces that encourage comfort, connection, and fun for all.
Building Strong Foundations: Fundraising Strategies that Fuel Parks and Recreation
Speaker(s): Craig Bjur, Erv Inniger, John Pierce, Scott Holdman, Brandy Chaffee
Room: Harvest Hall 1
Description: Parks foundations play a powerful role in building sustainable communities, and this panel will highlight the strategies and stories that bring that impact to life. Led by Craig Bjur, Executive Director of the Fargo Park District Foundation, the discussion features Erv Inniger, John Pierce, Scott Holdman, and Brandy Chaffee, leaders with deep expertise in fundraising, philanthropy, and community partnerships. In this presentation, you’ll hear candid conversations and real-world examples about cultivating donor relationships, securing major gifts, and aligning fundraising efforts with community values. The panel will also share insights into creative campaigns, effective governance practices, and opportunities for public-private collaboration. Whether you are starting a foundation or refining your fundraising approach, this session will provide inspiration, practical tools, and fresh ideas to strengthen your impact.
