Valpo Parks Department’s Madison Bell Achieves Certified Park and Recreation Professional Certification

Valpo Parks congratulates Madison Bell, Recreation Superintendent, on achieving the National Parks and Recreation Association’s (NPRA) Certified Park and Recreation Professional certification. 

The Certified Park and Recreation Professional certification is the national standard for all parks and recreation professionals who want to be at the forefront of their profession. 

Attaining the CPRP designation shows that you have met education and experience qualifications and illustrates your commitment to the profession as well as your knowledge and understanding of key concepts within parks and recreation. 

Some of those key concepts include: 

• Programming 
• Operations 
• Finance 
• HR 
• and Communications 

In describing the course, Madison remarked that as she studied the material, “it affirmed what we already do at Valpo Parks, for example, the importance of communications and making sure the community understands the “why” behind our decisions and also H/R and our method of hiring, onboarding and training staff and new employees. It made me feel really proud of our department and it boosted my confidence in what we are already doing”. The course also taught Madison about the behind-the-scenes aspects of financing and programming. 

In 2024, Madison applied for and received a professional development grant from the Indiana Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA). She then used those funds and applied to NRPA to take the certification course. This is a self-driven course in which Madison was given a study booklet and one year to complete the certification test. In June 2025, Madison completed and passed the test. 

When asked why she chose to seek the certification, Madison replied, “I just love learning every facet of the Parks Department. I love that I’ve worked in customer service, the events team and youth and adult sports. This course provided a lot of insight into day-to-day operations that I am not normally part of and gave me a deeper appreciation for what everyone on the team does.” 

Valpo Parks Director Kevin Nuppnau remarked, “We are extremely proud of Madison for achieving her Certified Park and Recreation Professional certification. This accomplishment is a testament to her dedication and commitment to the park and recreation field. At Valpo Parks, we encourage lifelong learning and leadership development among our staff, and Madison truly exemplifies the caliber of professionals we have. This certification not only enhances her own expertise but also strengthens our entire department, ensuring we continue to provide the highest quality services to our residents and visitors.”

About Valpo Parks: 

Valpo Parks is dedicated to enriching our community by designing meaningful spaces, creating impactful experiences and promoting healthy lifestyles. 

To learn more about Valpo Parks, visit valpoparks.org