APRF Scholarship Michael A. Ramnes NPRA Professional Development

The Arizona Parks & Recreation Fellowship (APRF) and the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA) annually awards the Michael A. Ramnes Professional Scholarship to parks and recreation professionals working in parks, recreation, natural resources, tourism or related field throughout Arizona. This scholarship is to offset expenses for attendance at a National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA) Conference or Management School not reimbursed by an employer, organization or other source.


Michael A. Ramnes, former Director of Arizona State Parks and a past President of the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association, was dedicated to enhancing the professional development of individuals in parks, recreation, natural resources, tourism or related field.


Scholarship winners will be awarded up to a $750 scholarship, and recognized through APRF/APRA print and e-media as well as the Annual Arizona Parks and Recreation Association Conference and Trade Show.


Scholarships are evaluated on the following criteria:

• Completed applicant information form

• Purpose statement

• Professional resume (2 pages maximum)

• Letter of professional support from current supervisor

• Preference given for members that have served a minimum of 12 hours towards APRF/APRA programs/events within the last 12 months


General Guidelines:

• Must be a professional in parks and recreation or related field

• Demonstrate evidence of work in the parks and recreation profession

• Attendance of a NRPA professional development meeting, training, school or conference


Application Procedures:

• All requested information must be submitted with the application

• If you have any questions regarding the application, email the APRF Scholarship Committee at scholarships@aprf.org

Applications submitted will be reviewed monthly by the APRF Scholarship Committee.  Allow at least one (1) month for notification of your application's status.  The APRF Scholarship Committee encourages applicants to submit their application at least three (3) months in advance of their payment due date for the applicable conference, certification, training program, etc. 

There is limited scholarship funding available and priority will be given to those applicants that have not already received recent funding.  Once the funding threshold has been met, no additional scholarships will be awarded for the year.

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CPRP: Certified Parks & Recreation Professional
CPSI: Certified Playground Safety Inspector
CYSA: Certified Youth Sports Administrator
LGI: Lifeguard Instructor Training
CPRE: Certified Parks & Recreation Executive
CTRS: Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
CPO: Certified Pool Operator
AFO: Aquatic Facilities Operator
WSI: Water Safety Instructor

APRA: Arizona Park & Recreation Association
IFEA: International Festivals & Events Association
APWA: American Public Works Association
USTA: United States Tennis Association
NAYS: National Alliance for Youth Sports
NRPA: National Recreation & Parks Association
AOAP: Association of Aquatic Professionals
WWA: World Water Park Association
ITF: International Tennis Federation

In 500 words or less, describe the purpose of this professional development proposal within the context of your professional goals and achievements. Discuss the specific nature of the program you propose to attend and indicate what outcomes or benefits your expect to achieve. 

20MB max

20MB max

I certify that the information contained in this application is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I understand that false statements of facts may subject me to disqualification.