The Young Professional Externship Program enables outstanding young professionals 35 years of age and younger in the parks and recreation field to interact with and learn from members of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration, and other individuals who attend the NRPA Conference and its associated meetings. Up to four Externs are selected each year, of which two are Ernest T. Atwell diversity externships. Selected Externs each receive (1) reimbursement for the 2024 NRPA Conference registration; (2) up to $1,000 in reimbursement for conference. Learn more and apply here.

In preparation for a successful nomination the Academy highly recommends viewing this webinar, 6 Tips to Nominate a Future Academy Member. If you are interested in becoming an Academy member, you are encouraged to reach out to a current member and inquire if they would nominate you for membership. Not sure who is a current Academy member? Click here to view Academy members by state. If are not familiar with a current Academy member, please reach out to info@aapra.org and efforts will be made to connect you. Learn more about the Academy mission and purpose and about the process and criteria for membership.

In support of its research goals, AAPRA annually hosts a research competition that alternates between best master’s thesis / special project (odd years) and best doctoral dissertation (even years). The following three awards will be given in 2024: One (1) Disseration Paper Award of $1,000 and up to $500 in travel funds to attend the NRPA 2024 Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA, October 8-10, 2024, and a Disseration Award Certificate. Two (2) Certificate of Merit awards to two Dissertation Paper finalists