Photo Credit: © Can Stock Photo / (Top Left) RickBL • (Top Right) stokkete • (Bottom Left & Right) Lopolo
Everyone has a story about how they got to where they are today; while some may appear to be more profound than others, all are, unequivocally, unique. Each person’s motivations are equally unique and evolve throughout a career. Some are motivated purely by compensation, others by convenience and proximity to home, and some gravitate toward a work schedule that accommodates the needs of one’s family.
My professional motivations, like those of so many in the parks and recreation field, have always been somewhat altruistic—to make a difference, improve lives, create opportunities, change lifestyles, etc. Like others, I have been invited to graduations or had letters written to me by parents and participants of programs I’ve overseen, stating that I’ve accomplished this goal over the years. These were some of the greatest rewards of an all-too-thankless career path.
As administrators, we implement many of the decisions, policies, programs, and processes because of our own life experiences. Mine have been no different.