Celebrating Parks and Recreation’s Inaugural 30 Under 30 — February Bonus Episode

The February issue of Parks & Recreation magazine
is out now, and on today’s episode, we’re diving deeper into this
month’s cover story, “30 Under 30 for 2021.” We know from our
work at NRPA that there are a lot of talented, passionate young
professionals in the field of parks and recreation. These
individuals truly serve as everyday superheroes in
their communities and are continuing to make impacts
that are not only felt on a local level, but are absolutely
worthy of every bit of recognition on a national level, as
well. We’re so excited to talk with our guests today to learn
more about how we’re lifting these young professionals up and
sharing the good work they do. 


The NRPA Young Professional Network, or YPN, and Parks &
Recreation magazine recently teamed up to launch the
first-ever “30 Under 30” recognition program to honor 30 of
the top young park and recreation professionals in the
country. With a diverse group of nominees from 29 different
states, one Canadian province and one U.S. Navy aircraft carrier,
we’re going to assume that the selection process wasn’t
easy. But, we’re thrilled to be joined by two people on
the show today who worked to get this program moving.


Today we’re speaking with Michael Biedenstein, CPRP,
AFO, a park program services division manager for St. Louis
County Parks in Missouri and past chair of the NRPA
YPN who, along with other leaders from the YPN, brought this
great idea to NRPA. We’re also joined by Hayley
Herzing, NRPA’s senior manager of membership, to learn about how
NRPA has supported this program on a national level.


Tune in below to learn about the role that Michael and Hayley
played in bringing the “30 Under 30” idea to life, as well as:


What — or, more appropriately, who — inspired the 30 Under 30
recognition program.

What qualities the selection committee was looking for when
selecting the 30 individuals out of more than 100 nominations.

Why Michael and Hayley feel it’s important for parks and
recreation as a profession to highlight and elevate young
professionals.

What stories from this impressive group of young
professionals have stood out to each of them.

How these young professionals’ stories make Michael and
Hayley feel about the future of parks and recreation, and more!