About Us

The Great Lakes Park Training Institute is a collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing the knowledge, skills, and impact of park and recreation professionals across the region. It brings together a diverse network of practitioners, educators, and leaders who are committed to strengthening parks, public spaces, and community well-being.

The Institute supports its mission by offering high-quality training, fostering professional development, encouraging the exchange of ideas and best practices, and creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration among peers.

Participants represent a wide range of roles and disciplines, including park and recreation professionals, educators, planners, landscape architects, administrators, community leaders, and others who contribute to the planning, management, and enhancement of parks and public lands.

With a strong tradition of regional partnership and professional growth, the Great Lakes Park Training Institute continues to serve as a valuable forum for learning, connection, and innovation in the parks and recreation field.

Team

Colleen Durkin-Blackburn

Senior Program Manager of Accessibility and Park Planning

Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands

Clay Chafin

Center Director

Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands

Claire Jenness

Administrative Assistant

Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands

GLPTI Board Members

The Great Lakes Park Training Institute Board provides governance and administrative oversight for GLPTI and is comprised of parks and public lands professionals in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio.

	Larry Hess Chair Michigan Representative
	Erin Parker At Large
	Michael “Mickey” Rea Indiana Representative
	Zuri Carter Ohio Representative
	Rowdy Perry State Parks Representative
	Kristi Solberg Midwest Institute of Park Executives Representative
	Carl Lindell Ex-Officio
	Ted Bowman Ex-Officio
	Marci Reinbolt Vendor Representative
	Vacant Wisconsin Representative
	Vacant Illinois Representative