The Midwest State Park Executive Conference was held November 6–9, 2023 at Sequoyah State Park up in Northeast Oklahoma where the staff of that facility along with others from the agency were excited to host. The conference welcomed attendees from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, and Illinois.
The conference started with introductions and a welcome from the Director of Oklahoma State Parks, Sterling Zerley. The conference was action packed with speakers and visits to state parks, historic sites, dams, and The Gathering Place in Tulsa, Oklahoma–which is recognized as the most expensive private public partnership in the USA. These trips offered excellent presentations and opportunities to learn about them all.
Speakers brought exceptional educational opportunities from some passionate, knowledgeable, and entertaining leaders in the industry. Former Director of Texas State Parks Walt Dabney spoke about the history, opportunities, and challenges of America’s Public Lands. Donald Forgione brought a keynote encouraging everyone to be engaged and enjoy the week. Kelly Farrell from Arkansas provided a presentation about the great outdoors that was entertaining! Presentations were also made by NASPD Executive Director Lewis Ledford and Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Executive Director Shelley Zumwalt.
The MWSPEC concluded with a special treat featuring Kent Rollins, the renown Oklahoman who has been awarded the best cowboy humorist and storyteller. He's also a well-known cook who grilled steaks and shared stories of life in Oklahoma on the ranch. It was exciting week with great networking, sharing, and friendships made.
The Oklahoma State Parks system was proud to host the Midwest State Parks Executive Conference for 2023 and looks forward to the opportunities in the future.
