My Profile

Ashley (Wysocki) Theel

City of Huntington Beach Community Services Dept.

Contact Details

City of Huntington Beach Community Services Dept.

Bio

Why have you chosen to run for the CPRS State Board of Directors?

I've chosen to run for the CRPS State Board of Directors because of my passion to give back to a profession that has shaped me and my career in profound ways.  Throughout my time in parks and recreation, I've experienced the incredible impact our work has on communities, and I feel a strong responsibility to contribute to our field's ongoing growth and success.  My most recent involvement serving on the California Aquatics Management School Committee has been instrumental in this decision, as it reinforced the importance of staying actively engaged in CPRS.  Serving on the board would allow me to apply my skill, energy and dedication toward creating meaningful opportunities for both current and future professionals in our field!

What personal attributes, skills, or knowledge would you bring to the State Board of Directors if elected?

If elected, I would bring a blend of experience, skills and dedication to the Secretary/Treasurer role and CPRS State Board.  With a deep commitment to community wellness, public service and innovation, my experience in parks and recreation management equips me with a strong foundation in both strategic planning and daily operations.  In my role as Secretary/Treasurer, I would apply my financial acumen and organizational skills to ensure CPRS's fiscal health and operational efficiency, drawing on my experience managing budgets and implementing cost-effective strategies for community programs.  My clear communication style and collaborative approach will be an asset to the Board, building consensus and fostering balanced discussions.

What is the greatest challenge our profession faces and how will you lead to address that challenge?

One of the greatest challenges facing our profession today is the sustainability and resilience of our facilities and programs, while facing increasing demands and limited resources.  Our community's needs continue to evolve, and our field must prioritize innovation and adaptability to provide high-quality recreational opportunities that serve diverse populations.  My focus continues to be on collaboration and networking across our profession to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and develop creative, effective solutions.  By creating opportunities for professionals to connect, share insights and build partnerships, I aim to strengthen our collective impact and ensure parks and recreation remains an essential service to all of our communities.

Please share relevant leadership experiences outside of your work environment. 

California Parks & Recreation Society Member: 2007 - Present

District 10 Mentor/Mentee Program: 2024

Aquatics Section - California Aquatics Management School Committee: 2024

CPRS Conference Session Review Committee: 2019 - Present

Aquatics Section Treasurer: 2017 - 2019

Women In Leisure Services Member: 2012 - Present

LeadHERship Conference Committee: 2021 - Present

National Presidential Series: 2019 - 2022

Gamma Chapter National Delegate: 2018 - 2020

Gamma Chapter Presidential Series: 2014 - 2017

Gamma Chapter Secretary: 2013 - 2014

National Recreation & Park Association Member: 2019 - Present

Certified Park & Recreation Professional: 2020

Certified Park & Recreation Executive: 2021