Meet Jessica Cannaday!

• Name: Jessica Cannaday

• Employer: Oak Brook Park District

• Position: Marketing and Promotions Manager

• Educational Background: BA in Electronic Publishing/Professional Writing from Saint Mary's University, Winona, MN

• How long a member of IPRA? 11 years

• Why is IPRA membership important to you? IPRA provides invaluable networking an educational opportunities. From my first year in the field to today, I have made connections that have inspired creativity, helped hone professional skills, and helped me to advance in my career.  I have also developed friendships that provide unending support in all aspects of my life.

 

• Best thing about working in the field of parks & recreation? Waking up in the morning and knowing that the work you do that day will actually help to make someone's life better.

• In your opinion, what is the biggest issue facing parks & recreation? Educating people as to the importance of physical activities and the benefits the importance of getting outside.

• What advice would you give a recent college graduate? The field of parks and recreation is huge, and it is nationwide. There is a place for you-one that will utilize your individual talents and appreciate your passion. Go find it!

• Tell us a little known fact about you! I am an avid gardener and enjoy canning homegrown produce. I learned it from my mom, who learned it from my grandma. I cannot remember having a store-bought jar of jam in my home, ever.

• What was your path to a career in parks & recreation? Before I graduated college, I ran into the mother of a high school friend while I was at a karaoke night at a park district run bar and grill. She invited me to apply for a new marketing position available in my home town. So I applied and interviewed during finals week. I love the work, and even met my husband in the field.

• What is your favorite parks & recreation program you’ve been a part of? Oak Brook Park District's Pink 5k.

• Whom do you admire, and why? My Grandma Ruby. She raised eight of her own children, fostered more than 20 more, helped run a farm, worked to provide for her family and at 85 years old, she still has an unrivaled passion for life. She is a brilliant woman that finds happiness and joy in every day.