Blues, History, and Southern Hospitality: Highlights from the 2024 ASSPD Conference in Mississippi
The recent Association of Southeastern State Parks Directors (ASSPD) Conference, held in the scenic landscapes of Central Mississippi, offered attendees a perfect blend of professional engagement and hands-on experiences. Mississippi State Parks selected Blues, History, and good ol' Southern Hospitality as the overarching conference theme. Despite being the second smallest State Park System in the Southeastern Region of Americas State Parks, the Mississippi team showed up and showed out for an astounding event.
Baptized in Blues: Blues music from Mississippi, often referred to as the "Delta Blues," is one of the most influential and soul-stirring musical styles in American history.
Humbled by History: Guests were immersed in the History of Mississippi State Parks and the state's rich history of serving as the battleground of the Civil Rights Movement.
Hospitable Hosts: Guests traveled to Roosevelt State Park and Percy Quin State Park for field trips on Monday and Wednesday for music, food, and fun outdoor activities.
Marking the next chapter for a State Parks legend: On the conference's final day, we invited Lewis Ledford President and CEO of NASPD to the podium to deliver his presentation and annual updates on America's State Parks. Little did he know, we would also recognize his well-deserved retirement from the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) that he has recently announced.
After the presentation, Andre Hollis, Director of Mississippi State Parks, took a moment to express his deep gratitude to Mr. Ledford. Andre shared how much Lewis's unwavering support had meant to him throughout his career, even recalling the warm welcome he received when he joined the National Directors Association years.
Mississippi State Park representatives Andre Hollis, Brian Ferguson, and Sarah Caylor presented Lewis with a commemorative plaque signed by all conference attendees to honor his remarkable contributions to our nation's state parks. From championing the cause of America's State Parks in Washington, D.C., to mentoring countless park leaders, Lewis Ledford, a past ASSPD President and active during the time he was director in North Carolina, has left an indelible mark on all of us who have had the privilege of working alongside him.
Thank you, Lewis, for your tireless dedication, your inspiring leadership, and for being a true advocate for America's State Parks. Your legacy will continue to guide us as we strive to protect and enhance these treasured places for generations to come.
As we concluded this year's conference, the bonds formed and the shared visions for the future of state parks echoed throughout the event. Directors and park professionals left Mississippi with renewed inspiration, innovative ideas, and stronger networks to help elevate their park systems. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated, our generous sponsors, and the hard-working teams who made this event possible. Mississippi was proud to host such a remarkable gathering, and we look forward to seeing everyone again at next year's conference hosted by Virginia State Parks!
By Sarah Caylor, Economic Developer for State Parks
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks