Session Presentations

(Click session titles below to view and/or download presentations.)

Tracking Climate Threats and Solutions in California State Parks
Emily Doyle, Climate Resilience Program Manager, California State Parks Foundation
California state parks are already experiencing the devastating impacts of climate change, from proliferating wildfires to rising sea levels. To meet this challenge, it is critical that we understand the threats that state parks face as well as potential solutions. California State Parks Foundation is now developing a database to categorize and track climate threats throughout the state park system. We are also using the latest research and working with partners on the ground to identify and advance model climate solutions. This presentation will review how California State Parks Foundation is putting this plan into action to become an even stronger advocate for California state parks.

Creating Community-Centered Park Events
Heather Holm, Chief of Interpretation & Education, California State Parks Elizabeth Evans, Watershed Program Manager, California State Parks
In this interactive session, you’ll learn the 7-Ps of collaboration and explore the best practices of audience-centered interpretation to create more meaningful activities and events not just for your community but with your community. Guided by experienced leaders in the field of interpretation & education, participants will work in small groups to utilize design-thinking practices to rapidly prototype an idea for a new or improved park program.

Building Programs Through Inclusivity
Alma Shaw, Bilingual Program Director, Sonoma Ecology Center
A case-study in building inclusive park programming for specific audiences. We examine the conceptualization, best practices, and implementation, as well as challenges of the Senderos Naturales and the Slow Journeys programs at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

CALPA Reorganization and Change: A Vision for Building a Community of Practice
Bri Fordem, Executive Director, Anza-Borrego Foundation
Tim Schroepfer, President & CEO, California State Railroad Museum
After having gone through a Theory of Change workshop with Potrero Group in 2022 and reflecting on the results of the Partnership Study, The CALPA Board has decided to take next steps in setting new goals and changing the way they are met. With a vision to foster a network of resilient and innovative nonprofit partners to sustain the California state parks system learn about our new project goals and how you can support CALPA in building relevant resources for partners and members.

Partnerships to Create Climate Resilient Parks
Chris Spohrer, Santa Cruz District Superintendent of California State Parks
Bonny Hawley, Executive Director, Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks
Brenda Holmes, Executive Director, Mountain Parks Foundation
Geoff Kish, Vice President of Programs, Parks California
A conversation focused on themes that are applicable for partners supporting Parks to becoming more resilient to climate change impacts. Partners to provide illustrative examples from work at Big Basin and Seacliff.

Contract Essentials – What Did We Agree To?
Brie Grossman, Cooperating Association Program Coordinator, California State Parks
Rene Hamlin, Partnerships Specialist, California State Parks (previously Marisa Warnock)
This presentation will cover key contract elements: capital outlay, annual planning, reporting, and partnership roles. Participants will learn about contract fundamentals, planning strategies, reporting processes, and ways to strengthen partnerships.

Strengthening Tribal Relationships: Lessons from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
John Roney, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Park Manager, Sonoma Ecology Center
Desi Harp, Event and Education Assistant, Sonoma Ecology Center
Strengthening Tribal Relationships: Lessons from Sugarloaf Ridge State Park The collaboration between the Mishewal Wappo tribe and Sonoma Ecology Center at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park exemplifies how informal relationships can evolve into transformative partnerships, reshaping park operations and tribal connections to ancestral lands. Since 2021, this partnership has flourished, with the tribe engaging in gatherings, resource collection, and collaborative work within the park. Our session will explore the journey of building this relationship and its impact on both the park and the tribe. Key Discussion Points: Integrating tribal knowledge into park programming and education Facilitating tribal events and gatherings in the park Reflecting on the evolution of the partnership Addressing challenges in cross-cultural collaboration Sharing lessons learned and best practices Envisioning future directions for tribal-park partnerships Through interactive dialogue and case studies, participants will gain insights into: Initiating and nurturing relationships with local tribes Balancing park management with tribal needs and rights Creating inclusive spaces for tribal culture and practices Developing mutually beneficial programs and initiatives Join us to learn how your park can foster meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities, enrich visitor experiences, and honor the land's cultural heritage.

Dos Rios – A Park Born in Partnership
Danielle Gerhart, Central Valley District Superintendent of California State Parks
Paige Haller, Dos Rios Park Manager
Julie Rentner, President, River Partners
Austin Stevenot, Director of Tribal Engagement, River Partners
This session examines the opening of Dos Rios, California’s newest state park, while still owned by River Partners. Join leaders from State Parks and River Partners to learn how Dos Rios came to be and how to continue to grow the park through community engagement and planning.


Pitch Perfect — From Idea to Grant Award
Emily Henry, Associate Program Manager, Parks California
Join Parks California for an interactive session where you can practice developing a competitive grant project fit for the ParksCA's access and belonging grant program, Route to Parks. Participants will be split into small groups and will work together to develop a project framework based on provided prompts. Participants will then pitch the idea to Parks CA staff and receive technical support and guidance on how to strengthen the project idea and will leave with a stronger understanding of how to craft competitive projects for Route to Parks.

Fundraising for Parks: Planning and Executing Successful Events  
Sue Bell Yank, Executive Director, Clockshop
Heidi Doyle, Executive Director Emeriti, Sierra State Parks Foundation
This session will explore how California State Park Cooperating Associations can effectively fundraise through private event to support their mission of serving park partners. We’ll cover essential tools and strategies for planning events of any scale, from large galas to more intimate gatherings, all aimed at boosting fundraising success. Key topics include navigating state park and jurisdictional permitting requirements and best practices for event planning. Attendees will have th opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas, making this session a collaborative learning experience for enhancing fundraising through events.

Leveraging Servant Leadership in Partnerships
Tim Schroepfer, President & CEO, California State Railroad Museum
This session will explore how the principles of servant leadership can strengthen your relationship with Parks Partners and help you navigate being the junior partner.