Why have you chosen to run for the CPRS State Board of Directors?
As a Recreation and Community Services professional, CPRS has been a huge resource for me. Being a part of this organization and seeing the impact it has on the success of its members through networking, education, and engagement has encouraged me to get involved in many different ways over the years. At the district and section levels, I was able to see what an essential support the state board region and section reps were throughout the year. I want to continue to be involved with CPRS where I can make a difference and work with other passionate professionals. Living and working in the middle of Region 5, I see how much the districts have to offer each other and would love to continue to build those relationships, as well as support them individually as their Region 5 Representative.
What personal attributes, skills, or knowledge would you bring to the State Board of Directors if elected?
Training and Development has always been a passion of mine, so I'm heavily involved in staff development. I'm an experienced public speaker and trainer that infuses all my training sessions with unique energy and passion, focusing on topics from team building and purpose to passionate leadership and skill development. I have over 25 years of experience in staff management, training & development, facility supervision, strategic planning, budgetary management, and front line customer service. I'm motivated, hardworking, and love to contribute to the success of a team. My diverse background from the private and public sectors would be a great asset to the CPRS State Board of Directors.
What is the greatest challenge our profession faces and how will you lead to address that challenge?
Many Recreation and Community Services agencies and organizations have seen their workforce and budgets reduced over the last few years. Having to do "more with less" is a common challenge for many while also finding new ways to demonstrate the value of the services they provide to their community. As a Region Rep, I would provide support for our members and help to provide resources that address that challenge while also looking to unite the districts that are dealing with similar situations, so they can be resources for each other.
Please share relevant leadership experiences outside of your work environment.
I have been involved with Women in Leisure Services since 2016 and served on the Networking Night Committee for WILS as one of the Chairs in 2018 and 2019.
I started on the District 10 board as the Recreation Therapy Rep from 2020-2022, then transitioned to the Aquatics Rep for District 10 board from 2022-2023. I served on the Annual Installation and Awards Banquet committee for 3 years from 2020-2023, acting as the committee Co-Chair for 1 year in 2023. I'm currently on the D10 Mentorship committee and love being involved in the local district.
This year is my second year as the Secretary of the Aquatics Section (2022-2024) and have also served on the Aquatics Intensive Committee in 2023 and the CAMS Committee in 2023.
Locally, I'm active on the Diversity and Inclusion Task Force in Mission Viejo (2021-2023) and support our local Marine Adoption Committee that works with Camp Pendleton (2021-2023)
Aumee's Bio...
Aumee is an experienced community services professional that loves to lead by example and motivates her team to work together towards a common goal. She is heavily involved in training staff to further their ongoing development while working towards the goals of the team. She combines 20 years of experience in staff management, training and development, facility supervision, and event planning with a passion for community recreation services and aquatics. Aumee is an experienced public speaker and trainer that infuses all her training sessions with her unique energy and passion, focusing on topics from team building and purpose to passionate leadership. She is certified in the True Colors workshop focused on personality based communication styles and has traveled around California bringing True Colors communication to different agencies.