MRPA Annual Conference 2026
October 20 - 23, 2026
Duluth Entertainment Convention Center
Duluth, MN 

The Conference Committee is looking forward to providing diverse educational opportunities that will engage professionals from all backgrounds. If you have a new, fresh, or even off-the-cuff idea, we would love to connect and explore how we can help bring it to life — please reach out to Chelsea Swenhaugen or Ross Demant to start the conversation. It is important to us that the members we serve gain meaningful experiences that truly “Lifts” their education, expand their knowledge, and strengthen engagement within their own communities.

To submit an Educational Session Proposal please visit: ­­­­­https://form.jotform.com/260223698221151

The deadline for Educational Session Proposals is Friday, March 27.  

If you have questions, the Conference Committee members would be happy to assist you:

Alicia Watts, Conference Committee Co-Chair - awatts@duluthmn.gov

Sam Werle, Conference Committee Co-Chair - swerle@duluthmn.gov

Ross Demant, Program Committee Co-Chair - ross.demant@wrightcountymn.gov

Chelsea Swenhaugen, Program Committee Co-Chair  - cswenhaugen@ighmn.gov                       

This year’s conference theme is Lifted. The 2026 conference team is devoted to delivering a conference that will explore all aspects of parks and recreation!