Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute Application
The application deadline is July 31, 2026
Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institute Application (Application Deadline is July 31, 2026)
As part of the application process, please attach a current résumé and a letter of recommendation from your direct supervisor. A strong letter of recommendation is important—it demonstrates that your supervisor recognizes your potential as a future leader in the field of Recreation and Parks, supports your professional development goals, and is aware of your commitment to this program. Their endorsement helps us understand your readiness for this leadership journey.
All components of the application are important and will be considered as part of the evaluation and selection process. Applicants are encouraged to provide thorough, thoughtful, and complete responses to every question. Attention to detail matters; spelling, grammar, clarity of writing, and overall professionalism will factor into the review. Each part of the application helps the selection team understand the candidate’s readiness for the program and gage their interest. Applicants should take care to present their best work throughout. This is the Committee’s chance to get to know you.
To be eligible to apply...
- Submit a resume.
- Submit a letter of recommendation from your direct supervisor.
- Participant must be an MRPA member in good standing.
- Participant must be a Full-Time Employee within a Recreation and Parks organization.
Dates for the Ritch Stevenson Leadership Institutes are as follows (please note that some dates may be subject to change). Under "availability" on the application (below), please confirm your availability for these dates. Attendance at all sessions is required.
- Session 1: 9/17/2026 – Northeast Community Center, Chesapeake Beach
- Session 2 (Overnight Retreat): 10/15 – 10/16/2026
- Session 3: 11/19/2026
- Session 4: 12/17/2026
- Session 5: 1/14/2027
- Session 6: 2/18/2027
- Session 7 (Practice Presentations): 3/1/2027
- Session 8 (Final Presentation): 3/17/2027
- Annual Conference: 4/6 – 4/8/2027
Fee: $650.00 per registrant
The fee includes facility, speaker fees, materials, lodging, and meals. You will be invoiced upon acceptance into the program.
Graduates of the Institute will present and receive acknowledgment at the MRPA Annual Conference.
Important Notice!! Conference registration, conference accommodations, and the banquet at conference are not included in the Institute fee!
Contact the Committee Co-Chairs if you have questions.
- April Gibson-Thomas april.gibson@pgparks.com
- Dresmond McLaurin dresmond.mclaurin@pgparks.com
- Tenisha Reid tenisha.reid@montgomerycountymd.gov