President’s Award
Michael Klitzing
Michael Klitzing has dedicated his presidency to supporting IPRA members and advancing our mission to strengthening parks across Indiana. He facilitated our regional Leadership Summits introduced this spring, making it easier for members to attend, and was a strong supporter of the Small Department Collaborative, which provides critical networking opportunities to better assist departments serving communities with smaller populations, budgets, or staff numbers. While a project spanning multiple presidents, Michael is most proud of his involvement in the Indiana Parks Impact Study, which helped provide Lilly Endowment confidence this fall to launch the Community Parks Initiative, a historic grant program that will provide nearly $400 million to fund transformative park projects in communities throughout the state.
Built Works Design Under 2 Million Budget
Lancaster Park
Bluffton Parks & Recreation
Lancaster Park is a powerful example of what happens when an entire community comes together with vision and purpose. Built on land donated by Norwell School and funded entirely through grants, donations, and in-kind support—without using a single dollar of the park budget—this 18-acre destination transformed a vacant site into a vibrant, youth-focused, and environmentally sustainable hub. With city-wide collaboration and standout features like a life-size human foosball court, a foot golf course, and the city's first dual-use football/soccer field, Lancaster Park redefines what’s possible on a modest budget.
Lincoln Park, Crawfordsville
HWC Engineering
Built Works Design Under 2 Million Budget
Merit Winners
Old School Park
McCordsville Parks & Recreation
Highland-Munster Park Pathway
Munster Parks & Recreation, Highland Parks & Recreation
Built Works Design Over 2 Million Budget
Martin Luther King Dream Center
South Bend Venues, Parks, Arts
The Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center brings new life to a historic South Bend site, shaped by the voices of more than 700 residents. This $27 million community hub, 40,000‑square‑foot facility offers technology labs, fitness studios, and flexible spaces that serve real community needs. With strong nonprofit and arts organizations, the center embodies equity, innovation, and Dr. King's legacy, setting a new standard for community-driven excellence; confirmed through LEED v4 Silver certification.
Holiday Park Playground
Rundell Ernstberger Associates
Built Works Design Over 2 Million Budget
Merit Winners
Riverside Adventure Park
V3 Companies
Fishers Community Center
Hagerman Construction
Fishers Community Center
Williams Architects
Exemplary Planning (TIED)
Echo Hollow Nature Park Master Plan
Butler Fairman & Seufert
The Echo Hollow Nature Park Master Plan establishes a plan for the Town of Plainfield to develop a regionally significant nature park that preserves and enhances high-quality habitat, supports long-term recovery of the Indiana bat, and provides meaningful and responsible public access to natural areas. This plan is established to promote thoughtful stewardship and investment in local natural resources on a scale that no other Town in the region has done before. The master planning process has been several years in the making. Public engagement through COVID restrictions, analysis of over 2,000 potential planning acres, early-action projects, market analysis, and federal agency coordination were all unique challenges for developing a master plan that will be a regional draw to Central Indiana.
Exemplary Planning (TIED)
Hayes Arboretum Master Plan
Rundell Ernstberger Assoc.
The Hayes Arboretum Master Plan provides a long-term vision for preserving and enhancing one of east-central Indiana's most significant ecological and cultural landscapes. Developed through extensive community engagement, the plan balances ecological stewardship with expanded recreation, education, accessibility, and year-round community use. More than a roadmap for future improvements, it demonstrates how thoughtful planning can strengthen parks and recreation systems, protect natural resources, and create welcoming public spaces that serve and inspire communities for generations.
Corporate Partner of the Year
Reid Health Community Health & Engagement & Richmond Parks & Recreation
Reid Health Community Engagement is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities they serve. As a not-for-profit health system, they invest in programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts that extend beyond hospital walls. Guided by community needs assessments, they focus on education, prevention, and support services that address local health priorities. Their commitment to collaboration and innovation helps create healthier communities and enhances quality of life for individuals of all ages.
Clark Ketchum Conservation Award
Wabash River Bank Stabilization
Bluffton Parks & Recreation
The Brickyard Nature Park prairie planting was a partnership between the ParksDepartment and the Soil and Water Conservation District with help from the USDA, fire department and Purdue Extension. A prairie was planted on an old farm field within the nature park, restoring native biodiversity, improving soil health, and supporting pollinators and wildlife. There is an educational component to the project with signage about prairie restoration, invasive plant species, birds and plants.
Excellence in Resource Improvement
Rogers Family Park: Goat Farm to Native Prairie
Bloomington Parks & Recreation
Bloomington Parks and Recreation is recognized for transforming Rogers Family Park into a model of ecological restoration and sustainable park management. Through visionary stewardship, strategic partnerships, and generous community support, the department restored native prairie and woodland habitat, expanded accessible trails, rehabilitated historic farm structures, and enhanced opportunities for nature-based recreation. Rogers Family Park demonstrates how long-term investment and environmental stewardship can revitalize an existing park while preserving its natural character for future generations.
Creative Event Under 5k
Westfield Parks & Recreation Green Day
Westfield Parks and Recreation, Westfield, IN
The City of Westfield's Green Day transformed a dormant Arbor Day tree giveaway into a vibrant community sustainability celebration. Through expanded partnerships, interactive environmental education, hands-on activities, and the relaunch of the Adopt-a-Trail Program, Green Day increased attendance by more than 136 percent in one year. With a budget of just $1,900, the event engaged nearly 1,000 visitors, distributed 325 tree saplings, and inspired residents to become active stewards of their community and environment.
Creative Event Over 5K-10K
Monster Putt-Putt
Washington Township Parks & Recreation, Avon
Monster Putt-Putt transformed a plain, unassuming programming space into a vibrant, glow-in-the-dark experience for local families to enjoy during the spookiest season. A brand-new, 9-hole putt-putt course took up residence in what is, by day, primarily a storage space outside of the busy season. Under the shine of carefully placed and meticulously angled black lights, each piece of elevated “green” was wrapped in bright neon colors, highlighting the walkways and indicating the hole. Hand-painted friendly monsters lined the walls and walkways, 3D printed monsters served as obstacles on the course, and a disco ball skeleton hung from the ceiling, throwing colored lights along the wall. A fog machine and Halloween party classic songs added to the atmosphere of the event. Groups registered for a tee-time and were provided with a glow-in-the-dark putter and ball for each player. Custom scorecards were designed and printed on neon paper to allow for visibility when keeping track of scores. When each group finished the course and returned their putters and balls, they had the opportunity to take home a free “monster” slushie.
Creative Over 10K
Kerry’s Kids & Teen Mud Run
Goshen Parks & Recreation
The Kerry's Kids & Teen Mud Run is a family-friendly adventure race that encourages youth to be active through fun, challenging mud obstacles designed for all skill levels. Participants receive a finisher medal and enjoy free admission to the Family Fun Zone featuring giant water slides, human hamster balls, games, and entertainment. Fully sponsored by the Kerry Finnigan Rupright Foundation, the event promotes social, emotional, and physical well-being while building confidence, perseverance, friendships, and healthy family connections through active outdoor recreation.
Inclusion For Children Under 16
Sensory Easter
Washington Township Parks & Recreation, Avon
Sensory Easter is an event that provides an individualized egg hunt for children who may benefit from a sensory-friendly experience. We were able to provide over 50 egg hunts and offered the choice of inside or outside. The indoor hunt offered a quiet, low-stress environment where eggs were hidden in plastic wading pools filled with shredded paper. We also offered an outside egg hunt for the participants who would prefer more space to roam.
Inclusion Programs For All Ages (Tied)
Sensory Nature Walk
Westfield Parks & Recreation
The City of Westfield Mayor's Council on Disabilities is recognized for its inaugural Sensory Nature Walk, a first-of-its-kind partnership with the City of Noblesville and the Noblesville Advisory Council on Disabilities. Designed to remove barriers to participation, the free event featured an ADA-accessible trail route, sensory-focused activities, and community resource booths. The program connected families with valuable services, inspired more inclusive recreation programming, and established a model for accessibility, collaboration, and belonging throughout Central Indiana.
Inclusion Programs For All Ages (Tied)
Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat Trail
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
The Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat Trail provides a safe, inclusive Halloween experience for individuals of all ages and abilities. Held annually at River Heritage Park, the event features accessible trick-or-treat stations, a pumpkin patch, games, and community resources in a sensory-friendly environment free from loud music, strobe lights, and frightening elements. By removing barriers and promoting inclusion, the program allows families to enjoy Halloween traditions together in a welcoming setting.
Innovative Programming Under 10K
Strawberry Moon Market
Hamilton County Parks & Recreation
Hamilton County Parks and Recreation is honored to receive the Innovative Program Award for the Strawberry Moon Market. Debuting in 2025 with a $2,300 budget, the event transformed Strawtown Koteewi Park into an immersive celebration of art, history, and nature. Held within the recreated Native American village and featuring the Taylor Center of Natural History, the program welcomed over 1,400 visitors, supported 22 local artists, and created a unique evening experience that connected community, culture, and place..
Innovative Programming 5K-10K
R3ckin’ the Park
City of South Bend Venues Parks & Arts
R3ckin’ the Park began as a creative way to reconnect families and neighborhoods through accessible recreation in South Bend’s parks. At its core, the “3 R’s”—Recreate, Recharge, and Reunite is a framework that makes recreation fun, restorative, and inclusive for all ages. The program is designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, build confidence, promote social interaction, and create memorable experiences for community members.
Innovative Programming Over 10K
Hammond Green Canopy Initiative
Hammond Parks & Recreation
With a commitment to improvement, Hammond secured a $200,000 Indiana Department of Natural Resources grant to enhance green spaces and joined IU’s Environmental Resilience Cohort. With support from Delta Institute and Davey Resource Group, and leadership from Devin Wick, the city updated its Urban Forestry Management Plan, completed a tree inventory, and piloted reforestation at historic Harrison Park. An IU McKinney Climate Fellow advanced canopy analysis, engaged residents, prioritized equitable planting, and planted 200 trees.
Distinguished Citizen
Dr. Nathan Schaumleffel
Terre Haute, IN
Dr. Nathan A. Schaumleffel, CPRE, CFRE, ACNP, CFRM, CVA, CYSA is a citizen-volunteer whose professional expertise powers his service as President of the Terre Haute Park and Recreation Board. He has strengthened Terre Haute park governance, founded the Indiana Rural Recreation Development Project to help communities such as Rockville and Clay City-Harrison Township plan for better recreation services, and helped advance trail access and safety through Vigo County’s Safe Routes to Parks initiative.
Elected Official of the Year
Matthew J. Snyder
Carmel City Council President,Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
Throughout his tenure on the Clay Township Board (2011–2023) and Carmel City Council (2024–present), Matt Snyder has been a steadfast champion of Carmel Clay Parks &Recreation. A lifelong Carmel resident, Matt understands firsthand the role parks play in creating a vibrant, connected community. Drawing on his experience as an elected official, he has helped lead efforts to secure more than $65.6 million in capital investment, strengthening CCPR’s nationally recognized park system and expanding opportunities for residents.
Foundation Award
Bob Arnold
The Indiana Park and Recreation Foundation is proud to honor Bob Arnold for his outstanding contributions to the parks and recreation profession. Throughout his career, Bob has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving communities, mentoring future leaders, and advancing the profession through collaboration and excellence. His dedication to helping others succeed reflects the mission of the Foundation and has left a lasting impact on colleagues, communities, and the future of parks and recreation in Indiana.
Foundation Award
Butler, Fairman, & Seufert
For many years, Butler, Fairman & Seufert has been more than a supporter of the IPRA Foundation - they have been a true partner in our mission. They have generously given their time, talents, and resources to strengthen not only the Foundation, but the Parks and Recreation profession throughout Indiana. Through their own work, Butler Fairman & Seufert has helped create better parks, stronger communities, and a better Indiana -- But their impact reaches even further through their continued investment in the Foundation and the professionals we serve. Their support has and continues to help us provide scholarships, professional development opportunities, and resources that strengthen our field for the future. On behalf of the IRPA Foundation and myself, we are incredibly grateful for your long standing commitment, and proud to recognize Butler, Fairman & Seufert with the 2026 Outstanding Corporate Advocate Award.
Outstanding Professional
Sasha Mateer
Lake County Parks & Recreation
Sasha Mateer has built her career on thoughtful leadership, unwavering follow-through, and exceptional professionalism. Rising from a seasonal employee to Superintendent of Recreation and Special Facilities, she has earned the trust of colleagues through her sound judgment, technical expertise, and compassionate leadership. Sasha consistently embraces new challenges, develops future leaders, and strengthens Lake County Parks through her commitment to excellence, making her a truly outstanding parks professional.
Exceptional Young Professional
Hannah Baxendale
Brownsburg Parks and Recreation
Hannah Baxendale, Field Supervisor of Natural Resources for the Town of Brownsburg Parks Department, is an emerging leader in Indiana parks and recreation. Since joining as an intern in 2021, she has advanced quickly through technical expertise, leadership, and community engagement. An ISA Certified Arborist, TRAQ-qualified, Indiana Certified Horticulturist, and licensed applicator, Hannah also leads stewardship programs, mentors staff and volunteers, and serves as IPRA's elected Natural Resources, Trails, and Greenways Representative, Board Member, and Committee Chair.
Legacy Park Award
Franke Park
Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation
Franke Park, founded in 1921 through John Bohn Franke’s land donation, has evolved into one of Fort Wayne’s most cherished destinations. Its history spans early community gatherings, the Christmas Seal health camp, winter festivals, and the creation of the Fort Wayne Zoo. Cultural additions like the Foellinger Theatre and cherry trees deepened its legacy. Today, ongoing improvements through the Franke Park Renaissance ensure this century‑old park remains a vibrant, community‑centered landmark.
Outstanding Small Agency
Connersville Parks & Recreation
Connersville, IN
The Connersville Parks & Recreation Department is dedicated to improving quality of life through innovative programs, community partnerships, and transformative park projects. Serving residents of all ages, the department provides youth sports, wellness initiatives, senior programming, community events, and accessible recreational opportunities. Recent accomplishments include the completion of major park improvements, facility restorations, and a comprehensive five-year master plan. Through leadership, collaboration, and stewardship, the department continues to strengthen communities and inspire excellence in parks and recreation.
Outstanding Medium Agency
Zionsville Parks & Recreation
Zionsville, IN
The Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department enhances the quality of life for more than 33,600 residents by managing 800 acres of parkland, over 30 miles of trails, and providing 464 annual recreation and nature programs reaching more than 33,000 participants. Through nationally recognized conservation efforts, universal accessibility, and community partnerships contributing over 4,000 volunteer hours annually, the department protects natural resources, expands recreation opportunities, and serves as a statewide leader in parks, trails, and environmental education.
Outstanding Large Agency
Hamilton County Parks & Recreation
Hamilton County, IN
Hamilton County Parks and Recreation is awarded the Outstanding Agency Award for its exceptional leadership, innovation, and service in one of Indiana’s fastest‑growing counties. Managing 21 park properties totaling more than 1,800 acres, HCPR expands recreation while preserving vital natural and historic resources. With 500+ free or low‑cost programs, strong partnerships, successful grant funding, and major conservation initiatives, the agency enhances resident health, quality of life, and ecosystem resilience while setting a statewide standard for excellence in parks and recreation.
Distinguished Life Member
Jim Basala
Lake County Parks & Recreation
For more than 50 years, Jim Basala has dedicated his career to enhancing communities and advancing parks and recreation in Indiana. Rising from a seasonal employee to CEO of Lake County Parks & Recreation, he has championed stewardship, leadership, and innovation. Through his service with IPRA, including as Board President, and his commitment to mentoring professionals, Jim has left a lasting impact on the field, shaping parks, communities, and future generations of recreation leaders.