2023 Conference Agenda

Day 1

• 7:00-8:30 a.m. – Breakfast
• 10:00 a.m. – Short welcome, agenda overview and orientation of conference
• 10:30 -12:30 p.m. – Leadership Session
• 12:30-1:30 – Lunch
• 1:30-3:30 Community Engagement Workshop
• 3:30-4:30 – Grants 101
• 5:30-7:30 – Dinner

Day 2

• 7:30-9:00 a.m. – Breakfast
• 10:00 – Opening Ceremonies
• 10:15–  Leadership Welcome and Agency Updates
• 11:15 – Keynote
• 12:15 – Group Photo
• 12:30-1:30 – Lunch
• 1:30-3:00 – Tribal 101
• 3:00 – Effective Communication thru 1:1 coaching
• 3:45-5:00 – Employee Recognition
• 5:30-7:30 – Dinner

Day 3

• 7:30-9:00 a.m. – Breakfast
• 9:30 – Welcome, announcements
• 10:00-11:00 – State Parks History with Charles Eatherly
• 11:00-12:00 p.m. – SHPO Jeopardy!
• 12:00-1:00 – Lunch
• 1:00-2:00 – Voices of the Future
• 2:00-3:00 – People are Hard

Speakers

Earl B. Hunter, Jr.

The Earl B. Hunter, Jr story is powerful. After a high-flying career as an executive in global sales, Earl went camping for the first time in Western North Carolina and was suddenly “all in.” While working for Sylvansport RV & Camping Trailer Company as the vice president of sales, and driving sales revenue from $815K per year to $17M in four years, he took a cross-country camping trip with his son. After 20 states (plus two Canadian provinces) and 49 campgrounds, Earl was shocked (and a little appalled) at having encountered only ONE other Black family camping. Black Folks Camp Too was launched October 10th, 2019, on stage at the Outdoor Economy Conference in Asheville, North Carolina, where Mr. Hunter was the event’s Master of Ceremonies. Black Folks Camp Too is an internationally known company forging relationships and securing partnering with global outdoor industry companies, brands and organizations...including several state parks and DNR systems. 

Earl B. Hunter, Jr is an authentic storyteller. He guides his audience to think from a solution point of view. He will present the three reasons why Black folks have been left out of the life-giving power of nature and discuss the impact this has on our nation’s overall psyche: (1) Fear; (2) Knowledge; (3) Invitation. Earl will share ideas on how we can all help to improve the situation. His presentation will focus on how important it is to INVITE “more” folks into the outdoors industry and lifestyle. In addition, Earl will share how the Unity Blaze, which is the campfire in the center of Black Folks Camp Too logo is quickly becoming the symbol to help Increase Unity in the Outdoor Community and Beyond. The Unity Blaze means "You are Invited and Welcome."

SpeakersEarl B. Hunter, Jr.The Earl B. Hunter, Jr story is powerful. After a high-flying career as an executive in global sales, Earl went camping for the first time in Western North Carolina and was suddenly “all in.” While working for Sylvansport RV & Camping Trailer Company as the vice president of sales, and driving sales revenue from $815K per year to $17M in four years, he took a cross-country camping trip with his son. After 20 states (plus two Canadian provinces) and 49 campgrounds, Earl was shocked (and a little appalled) at having encountered only ONE other Black family camping. Black Folks Camp Too was launched October 10th, 2019, on stage at the Outdoor Economy Conference in Asheville, North Carolina, where Mr. Hunter was the event’s Master of Ceremonies. Black Folks Camp Too is an internationally known company forging relationships and securing partnering with global outdoor industry companies, brands and organizations...including several state parks and DNR systems. Earl B. Hunter, Jr is an authentic storyteller. He guides his audience to think from a solution point of view. He will present the three reasons why Black folks have been left out of the life-giving power of nature and discuss the impact this has on our nation’s overall psyche: (1) Fear; (2) Knowledge; (3) Invitation. Earl will share ideas on how we can all help to improve the situation. His presentation will focus on how important it is to INVITE “more” folks into the outdoors industry and lifestyle. In addition, Earl will share how the Unity Blaze, which is the campfire in the center of Black Folks Camp Too logo is quickly becoming the symbol to help Increase Unity in the Outdoor Community and Beyond. The Unity Blaze means "You are Invited and Welcome."

Joan Timeche, Executive Director, Native Nations Institute, The University of Arizona

Joan Timeche is a citizen of the Hopi Tribe, from the village of Old Oraibi. She has served as the Executive Director of the Native Nations Institute (NNI) since 2009, working with Native nations to strengthen their governance. In addition to her executive management responsibilities, she leads NNI’s Tribal & Direct Services program designing and teaching educational seminars, facilitating discussions on topics such as Native Nation Rebuilding, governance assessments, and leading NNI’s cohort programs and youth programs with Indigenous communities and their leaders. Joan also teaches in NNI’s January in Tucson program, a joint program of NNI and the Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy program, College of Law, at the University of Arizona. She previously served eight years as NNI’s Assistant Director; eight years as Program Director of Northern Arizona University's (NAU) Center for American Indian Economic Development where she provided business and economic development services/education to tribes located in Arizona; and eight years as the Director of the Hopi Tribe's Education Department, overseeing pre-Kindergarten to higher education programs. Timeche holds a BS in Social Work and an MBA from NAU. She is a founding member of and previously served as board member/officer of the Arizona Native American Economic Coalition (and Executive Director), the Arizona American Indian Tourism Association, and the American Indian/Alaska Native Tourism Association. She currently serves as board member for the Economic Development Authority of the Tohono O’odham Nation, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, and Native Women Lead, Inc. Timeche authored “Doing Business on Arizona Indian Lands” and in 2000 founded the Native American Youth Entrepreneur Camp/workshops to introduce entrepreneurship to Native youth that continues today at the University of Arizona.

Kevin Fortuin, Outreach Specialist, Native Nations Institute

Kevin Fortuin serves as the Outreach Specialist for Tribal and Direct Services with the Native Nations Institute. Prior to joining NNI, Kevin served the Tohono O’odham Nation Department of Health and Human Services as a Senior Program Manager, Special Diabetes Program for Indians. In addition to his work in Public Health, he has extensive experience in Native American education, serving as the Native American Education Program Coordinator for seven years in a large school district in Tucson, AZ.  Kevin’s background includes grant writing, program development and management. He received a bachelor's degree in Secondary Education from the University of Kentucky and his master’s degree in American Indian Studies from the University of Arizona.  Kevin supports the delivery of NNI Tribal & Direct Services including planning/logistics support; conducting data gathering on Native nations and/or presentation topics; assisting in the development of seminar curriculum; co-presenting and co-facilitating seminars, drafting seminar evaluations; and overall support.

Dale Larsen

Dale Larsen, Professor of Practice, Honor’s Faculty and Director of Community Relations & Engagement for the Arizona State University Watts College of Public Service & Community Solutions, has been an executive manager/practitioner, educator and public service advocate in public lands for a half century. Formerly the Director of the City of Phoenix – Arizona, Parks and Recreation Department, he teaches undergraduate and graduate level coursework in public lands management, leadership, civic engagement and community organization at ASU. He has co-authored university textbooks and authored publications on parks and recreation administration and community external leadership.  Dale is a Past - President and a distinguished Fellow in the American Academy for Parks and Recreation and served as a Chairman for the Commission for Parks and Recreation Accreditation. He is a member of the National Parks and Recreation Association, the Trust for Public Lands and City Parks Alliance. Dale served as a President and Board Member for the Camp Colley Foundation (Northern Arizona outdoor camp for inner city children) and serves on the White Tank Mountains Conservancy.   He is the current Chairman for the Arizona State Parks Board. He is frequently called upon to comment and present on public lands issues and is often interviewed by the media on pertinent issues.

Mia Elizardi

Mia Elizardi is an adjunct faculty in executive education at the Daniels College of Business. Mia teaches in several custom and public leadership programs, focusing on talent development, organizational dynamics, coaching and company culture. Mia also serves as an internal consultant within human resources at DU, providing career coaching and overseeing the performance management program. Mia is a dynamic leader bringing 15 years of experience across higher education, nonprofits and healthcare as a coach and consultant. She is a Senior Certified Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-SCP), a Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF), and a Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP).

Andrew Strader, Friends of Tonto Natural Bridge

 

Sara Toms-Bergquist

Sara Toms-Bergquist is a park ranger whose passion for nature and commitment to service have shaped her remarkable career. With over a decade of experience in the field, she has been a dedicated park ranger since 2011, currently serving as a Senior Ranger at Lost Dutchman State Park. Her journey towards environmental stewardship began with a Bachelor's degree in Geology from Wright State University, followed by a Master's degree in Planetary Volcanology and Space Science from American Military University. In addition to her role as a park ranger, she proudly serves in the United States Air Force Reserves as a Master Sergeant within the prestigious 943^rd Rescue Group, 943^rd Aerospace Medical Squadron, accumulating an impressive 21 years of service to our nation.

Her expertise extends beyond park management and military service. She serves as a trail and geology consultant for the esteemed AZ PBS, sharing her insights and enriching the understanding of geologic wonders. Dedicated to the safety and well-being of others, she plays a pivotal role as one of Arizona State Parks and Trails' first aid and CPR instructors. Her commitment to training and preparedness ensures that park visitors receive the highest standard of care in emergency situations.

Mickey Rogers

Mickey has worked for state parks for over 50 years. He started his career in parks with Maine State Parks, managing several state parks before being promoted to Supervisor of Outdoor Recreation. In that capacity, he administered the Maine Conservation Corps, the Recreational Trails Program and Land and Water Conservation Fund. In 2014, he moved to Arizona, where he accepted the position of Chief of Grants and Trails for Arizona State Parks. In this position, he is currently responsible for seven separate grant programs.

In his spare time, Mickey enjoys hiking, biking, golf, sailing and fishing. He and his wife still own a home Maine where they frequently visit. His plan when he retires is to spend the summers in Maine and winters in Arizona. 

Katie Ferguson

Katie Ferguson has been in Arizona for six years to follow her dream of a career in land management. She has served at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park for five years, starting as a park ranger in 2018 and moving to assistant manager and then park manager. Originally from California, Katie enjoys kayaking, fishing, and rock hunting with her 10-year-old daughter. She and her daughter currently live in Payson with their dog.

Mary-Ellen Walsh

Mary-Ellen received her M.A. in Anthropology (archaeology) from Northern Arizona University in 1993 and has worked in the field of archaeology since 1985. She joined SHPO as a compliance specialist in 2013 and became the Cultural Resources Compliance Manager in 2018. Current interests include collaborating with her compliance team, tribes, consultants, and agencies to help improve current professional standards and SHPO guidance. She's happiest at the beach, and her spirit animals include the sea turtle, sloth and moose. 

Bill Collins

William (Bill) Collins has worked at the Arizona SHPO since 1990. He is a graduate of Arizona State University where he earned an M.S. in Economics and a Ph.D. in History. Both fields have been continuing interests as he has pursued a career at the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office. Bill's primary areas of study included modern American history, Western history, and historic preservation. At the State Historic Preservation Office, Bill oversees the National Register of Historic Places program, historic building surveys, and context studies.

In addition to researching and writing numerous nominations of properties to the National Register of Historic Places and context studies, such as Cattle Ranching in Arizona, 1540-1950 and The United States Military in Arizona, 1848-1945, Bill has written two books, The New Deal in Arizona (based on his dissertation) and The Emerging Metropolis: Phoenix, 1944-1973.

Bill is a native Arizonan who has a strong commitment to understanding both the history and economy of this rapidly growing state. Historic preservation has proven to be a field where he could apply his knowledge and skills to a wide variety of projects and programs. Especially rewarding has been the opportunity to work with small communities to encourage the preservation of their historic heritage while at the same time securing future economic opportunities.

Charles Eatherly

Charles Eatherly completed a Bachelor's degree in Park Management at Texas Tech University in 1961 and an Master's degree in Park Administration in 1963 while teaching at Texas Tech to provide financial assistance. After completing his graduate work, Charles accepted a position as Landscape Architect with the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department in Phoenix, AZ and was later promoted to General Services Supervisor. After living in Arizona for five years, Charles accepted a position as Superintendent of Parks for Norman, OK and then a position as Instructor at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, AR. After teaching for two years, Charles returned to Arizona as the Chief of Planning for Arizona State Parks in Phoenix. There he also served as Special Projects Coordinator, Executive Assistant, Legislative Liaison and Deputy Director before retiring his fill-time position. Charles has continued working part time for State Parks as an Executive Consultant and Historian for over 25 years.

His professional employment reflects over 60 years of public service in the parks and recreation field as educator, landscape architect, planner, administrator and mentor. Charles has been honored with numerous state and national awards.

On a personal note, Charles married Jane Hicks, also a Texas Tech graduate and they have three children, Kim, Kevin (wife Heather) and Karen. There are four grandchildren, Samantha (husband David), Alexandria, Austin and Audra, and two great grandchildren, Clay and Ava Jane.

Cora Winans

Cora Winans is a native Arizona resident and a human resource professional with more than 20 years of experience in state government. In her current role as Human Resources Manager at Arizona State Parks and Trails, she is responsible for, with the support of her team, administration, management and direction of human resources and payroll functions in accordance with federal and state law, ADOA State Personnel System rules and agency policies and procedure, and provides advice and guidance in the management of the agency.

Please view our safety flyer to help prepare for the conference!

FUN Agenda

Open Activities

Free play activities available when not in programming sessions:

• Yard Games - e.g. corn hole, ladder ball, jumbo Jenga, jumbo Four in a Row, badminton, tabletop games (Activity Field 1)
• Basketball (sports court)
• Arts & Crafts - e.g. dissecting owl pellets, tie-dye shirts (TP Room)
  Owl barf, are you kidding me? Yes, really!! Come and see how this animal creates pellets that we are able to dissect and identify what they actually eat!  Check out this along with the many other activities at the crafts and activities station.
  Have you ever wondered more about of the most fascinating insects ever?  Sweet, come and find out more!
• Board games (TP room)
• Photo booth (Dining Hall)
  Preserve the memories you make at our Photo Booth station! Bring along your Park Ranger pals for selfies with available cellphone-friendly tripod and special photo frame props from our incredible Marketing team! Make the most of the photo area by bringing along any ASPT or park-specific props for all to use! Participate in our pose-off prompts and submit your still and Live Photos and videos via QR code for a special surprise later on! 
• Fishing (Pond)

SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES:

Activities are one hour in length, unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, October 10

• 5:00 p.m. – Archery 101 & Free Shoot (Archery Range)
  Are you ready to let your inner Katniss run wild?  Come and test your skills at our archery range!  Open to people of all skillsets and abilities.  Visit the archery range area at 5 p.m. (Tuesday and Wednesday).
• 5:00 p.m. – Kayaking - invasive cattail removal (Pond)
• 5:00 p.m. – Open Shoot Pickup Basketball Games (Sports Court)
  Are you the top sharpshooter in our agency? Let's find out! Bring your talents to the sports court for our HORSE and 3 Point Shooting Contests. Be there at 5 p.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday
• 8:00 p.m. – Stargazing - led by Ethan Finch (Campfire Circle)
• 8:00 p.m. – Campfire S'mores (Campfire Circle)

Wednesday, October 11

• 7:00 a.m. – Natural History of the Mogollon Rim Hike - Led by Micah Kipple (Activity Field 1)
• 7:00 a.m. – Yoga - Led by Sarah Webber & Celine Lattouf (TP Room)
• 8:00 a.m. – Trivia - Organized/Open Session Until 10 a.m. (Dining Hall)
  Feeling a little competitive?? Come and join a team and meet some new people to show off your state parks knowledge! Question categories include park facts and history, ranger lore, operations, and nerdy nature! 
• 5:00 p.m. – Kayaking - invasive cattail removal (Pond) 
• 5:00 p.m. – Archery 101 & Free Shoot (Archery Range)
  Are you ready to let your inner Katniss run wild?  Come and test your skills at our archery range!  Open to people of all skillsets and abilities.  Visit the archery range area at 5 p.m. (Tuesday and Wednesday).
• 5:00 p.m. – Horse Basketball Tournament (Sports Court)
  Are you the top sharpshooter in our agency? Let's find out! Bring your talents to the sports court for our HORSE and 3 Point Shooting Contests. Be there at 5 p.m. on Tuesday or Wednesday.
• 5:00 p.m. – Costume Contest (Dining Hall)
  It's October, which pretty much means it's Halloween. Yay! There will be three categories and everyone gets one vote for each of the three categories. Let's get spooky together and see who has the scariest, funniest, and best park/science related costumes.
• 8:00 p.m. – Stargazing - led by Isaiah Ortiz (Campfire Circle)
• 8:00 p.m. – Karaoke (Dining Hall)
  Do you like to sing?  Do you have an amazing karaoke voice?  Or do you like making people feel like they are listening to nails on chalkboard?  Whatever your pleasure or reason, come out to the Dining Hall for a good time!

Thursday, October 12

• 7:00 a.m. – Yoga - Led by Sarah Webber & Celine Lattouf (TP Room)
• 7:00 a.m. – Birding 101 Hike - Led by Tori Marshall (Activity Field 1)
  Birds are great, let's go look for some! Binoculars are available to borrow! No experience needed!
   

What to bring

• Swim gear
• Water shoes
• Shirt and ziploc bags (tie-dye shirts)
• Costume (for the costume contest)
• Yoga mats

Sponsors

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