Brian Panek Earns National Certification for Parks and Recreation
Brian Panek, Manager of Golf and Facilities for the Des Plaines Park District, was recently certified as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) by the National Certification Board and the National Recreation and Park Association. The CPRP certification is granted to individuals employed in the recreation, park resources, and leisure services industry, who meet the eligibility requirements, including a combination of higher education and work experience. Candidates must also successfully complete the national CPRP examination, which tests knowledge in programming and operations management for parks and recreation and general admisitration. Panek was also recognized at the District in September, with the Dedicated to Excellence Award, for his implementation of new customer service policies, his staff management skills, and his long-standing loyalty to the District. “Brian is passionate about his responsibilities and takes pride in his work,” said Don Miletic, Assistant Executive Director. “He is a great representative of the District out in our community.”
Individuals certified as CPRPs meet high standards of education, expertise, and experience. “Brian has been with the Des Plaines Park District since 2002. He currently overseas golf operations at Golf Center Des Plaines and Lake Park where he has worked to find new ways to improve golf operations, increase revenue, generate more interest in the facilities, and bring in new customers,” said Miletic.
CPRP certifications are valid for a period of two years, and professionals who wish to reapply are required to complete professional continuing education unit requirements or equivalent academic course work.
The National Recreation and Park Association is a national, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of 20,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For more information about golf and at the Des Plaines Park District visit www.DPParks.org