Thursday, 9/18/2025 from 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM EST (Education Block 6)

Room: W208

Topic(s):
Access for All, Health and Wellness, Leadership and Personnel Management, 2025 Conference Theme: Build Together, Play Together

Description:
In this session, Jan Herke, parks and recreation director of the City of Urbandale, Iowa, will share insights and lessons from a very unique 34-year journey that has taken her from the exhilarating courts of college and professional basketball to the nuanced world of Division I and WNBA refereeing and eventually to the fulfilling role of a parks and recreation director. Through these varied experiences, she has gleaned invaluable leadership lessons that transcend the boundaries of sports and permeate the boardrooms of various organizations. In this session, we will discuss and examine leadership, communication, team building and decision making strategies that are relatable to all. We will learn that leadership is not a one-size-fits-all concept, and the best leaders understand when to be decisive and when to be empathetic. We also will learn how strong leadership skills can help build community partnerships and encourage discussions on equality and providing welcoming spaces for everyone, regardless of age, identity, income or ability. Lessons learned through sports transcend many professions and leadership positions, and attendees will be encouraged to reflect and share their own leadership journeys.

Learning Objectives:

1. Attendees will identify community leadership opportunities to create inclusive spaces for all community members, regardless of age, gender, income or ability.

2. Attendees will explore leadership and communication strategies they can implement in their positions.

3. Attendees will be able to motivate their staff and ‘team’ to pursue continuous improvement and embrace differences and access.

Speaker(s):
Jan Herke