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Thanks...For the Memories, the Moments and the Opportunity
As I prepare to step down from the role of IPRA Chairman of the Board, I reflect on the past year. Our 33rd President Harry Truman once said "Men and Women make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better." Army General Douglas MacArthur said that "A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent." In this, my final article, I would like to honor the leaders of our association; my fellow IPRA board members, and thank them for their service. When many agencies are doing more with less, they have committed numerous days out of the office to represent their fellow IPRA professionals. They spent hours reviewing packets, attending extra meetings, traveling around the state, talking to members and spending nights away from their families. I believe we’ve made a difference and I hope you are as proud as I am to have served. Special thanks go to Mike Kies and Allison Niemela, two amazingly passionate members, who will be leaving the Board after the conference. I am also grateful for our incredible Executive Director, Debbie Trueblood and her staff. They supported the board in every way. Last year when I was became Chair I talked about the concept of "having a moment". A moment was defined as that time when you stand at a program, a park dedication, or the grand opening of a facility and you rise above everything, and pause to reflect. You stop to enjoy the moment. It is at that time you know exactly why you do what you. You feel great satisfaction, joy and pride. This year was a combination of amazing moments. Our Board touched members throughout the state. We met in Fairview Heights in the southern region, Springfield in the central region and Rockford in the northwest. We networked with each other and with members in each region. We saw their beautiful facilities. We realized at every meeting that while we are different geographically, we all share the passion and love for what we do. Those moments made me stop, reflect and realize how fortunate I am to be part of the IPRA family. Did everyone agree with the decisions made by the Board? Probably not, but we know that each decision was made with the best interest of our members in mind. Some decisions were difficult, but we walk away stronger because of our experience. Most importantly, we walk away as friends. This year will always stand out as something very special; mostly due to the time we spent together. As we are about to embark on our week together at conference, I thank you for making IPRA a priority and for your support of me as Chair. By making IPRA stronger, you are benefitting your communities and ultimately, the State of Illinois. Congratulations on a job well done, and thank you for your motivation, professionalism and passion. Jan Peterson Hincapie, CPRP Director of Parks and Recreation Village of Lincolnwood |
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