How to Embrace Change and Lead During Challenging Times — September Bonus Episode

The September issue of Parks & Recreation magazine is out
now, and on this month’s bonus episode, we’re diving deeper into
the cover story, “Going Above and Beyond,” by NRPA’s executive
editor, Vitisia Paynich. The story highlights how the COVID-19
pandemic and the fight for racial equity compelled the Baltimore
County Department of Recreation and Parks to mobilize and take
action in order to continue to serve its community.


On today’s episode, we’re honored to be joined by the director of
Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks and former
NRPA board member, Roslyn Johnson, CPRP. Roslyn recently began
her role as director in February of this year, which was a
challenging time to begin any new venture. Johnson is also the
first woman to ever lead the Baltimore County Department of
Recreation and Parks in this role, which is a huge deal!


We talk with Johnson about the challenges that came along with
transitioning into a new role in a new department at the very
beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic taking hold in the U.S., as
well as how her department is supporting the community in
Baltimore County throughout the pandemic and the movement for
racial justice and equity.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn:


6:04: How the department made sure social equity was
considered when closing the areas or infrastructure it managed
due to COVID-19.

12:38: How Johnson’s staff has served over a million meals
since March 23.

20:37: How the department is working with the local school
system to ensure kids have educational opportunities due to
challenges with distance learning.

29:57: How Johnson helped facilitate tough conversations
among her staff in the wake of the murder of George Floyd — among
many other tragic instances of racism.

44:44: How the department is supporting protests taking place
in their parks, as well as working with the police to make sure
everyone remains safe during the protests.

49:45: How the “All Parks for All People” initiative and a
$35 million bond referendum are helping expand equity in parks in
Baltimore County, and more!