The Power of Kindness:
A Leadership Strategy for Park and Recreation Professionals
Parks and recreation professionals are on the front lines of community engagement, creating spaces for people to connect, recharge, and thrive. Yet, their work often comes with a challenge—navigating interactions with the public when kindness isn't always reciprocated. How do you maintain warmth, even in the face of frustration? How can kindness be a leadership strategy rather than just a personal virtue?
In this keynote, we’ll explore the science and strategy of kindness as a powerful leadership tool. Drawing on insights from behavioral science, leadership biodynamics, and the enduring wisdom of Mr. Rogers, we’ll unpack why kindness isn’t weakness—it’s a form of strength that builds trust, reduces conflict, and enhances community engagement. We’ll explore:
The Biology of Warmth: How warmth signals safety and builds cooperation.
The Reciprocity Effect: How small acts of kindness create ripple effects in behavior.
Navigating Tough Interactions: Techniques for staying warm when faced with hostility or indifference.
Kindness as Influence: Why kindness, when paired with competence and gravitas, strengthens leadership presence.
Park and recreation professionals don’t just manage spaces—they shape experiences. This session will provide practical strategies for making kindness an intentional leadership strategy, allowing you to lead with warmth, even in the most challenging moments.
About the Speaker:
Scott Hutcheson is a seasoned expert in behavioral science, leadership, and organizational transformation, with nearly four decades of experience helping individuals and teams unlock potential, foster innovation, and build adaptive ecosystems. As a professor at Purdue University, he teaches graduate courses in technology and engineering leadership, while also consulting with federal agencies, Fortune 100 companies, startups, and global networks—impacting nearly 5,000 leaders across 147 countries.
Known for his approachable and insightful style, Hutcheson makes complex ideas feel intuitive and immediately applicable. His work is driven by a deep curiosity about human systems, team dynamics, and the subtle signals leaders use to create shared value. Whether through writing, keynote speaking, or hands-on training, he delivers practical, evidence-based tools that resonate in both classrooms and boardrooms.
Outside of work, he enjoys life in Ulen, Indiana, alongside his wife Lisa, their two adult sons, and a well-walked dog—often with Yacht Rock playing in the background and a BBQ sizzling on the patio.
Purchase Scott Hutcheson's book titled, Biohacking Leadership, HERE.
