Council Connection: Activation and Architectural Design in Park Programming & Operations

Includes a Live Web Event on 11/05/2026 at 2:00 PM (EST)

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When thoughtfully designed and intentionally activated, parks can become vibrant community destinations that strengthen sense of place while creating strategic opportunities for sustainable revenue. This panel will bring together national experts to examine how programming, design, and operations work together to shape successful park spaces. Panelists will share practical strategies, lessons learned, and real-world examples that have delivered strong returns on investment and meaningful experiences for the communities they serve. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how an integrated approach to park functionality can balance.

Learning Objectives:

1. Attendees will be able to identify the difference between active and passive programming types.

2. Attendees will collect program ideas for authentic activation alignment to bring back to their staff.

3. Attendees will evaluate how their current park facilities and future capital improvement projects align with the true potential of their community culture.

This learning event is a part of the Council Connection learning series. Council Connection is an NRPA Business Council-led learning series aimed at addressing the most pressing topics in parks and recreation today. These sessions are led by subject matter experts on the council, developed in collaboration with park professionals, and are designed to foster leadership and innovation.

Shane Fernandez - AIA, NCARB, RCID, LEED-AP

CEO, President

American Bicycle Association, USA BMX, ABA-Ethos

Shane is a multifaceted executive facilitator with a multi-billion-dollar international portfolio in Urban Design, Architecture, Engineering and Construction projects in the sports, city planning, parks, healthcare, energy, retail, industrial, corporate, educational, non-profit, spiritual, wellness, performing arts, residential, museum, and public art sectors.

As the leader of the American Bicycle Association (ABA) in multiple capacities, Shane represents both the largest cycling organization and the largest Action Sports event promoter in the US and Canada. Across the US and Canada, the ABA network empowers communities by generating quality-of-life activation and economic development through events and tourism that had 3.5 Million live spectators in 2025.

As the CEO of ABA-Ethos, Shane is currently leading multiple municipalities across the US with the Design, Development, Operational strategies, and Public Private Partnerships for $250M in large scale multi-use action sports and adventure parks- including the Los Angles 2028 Olympics

Vince Trinidad, IOM, CSEE

SPORTS ETA

Vincent Trinidad is a vibrant changemaker with 30 years of experience in sports, tourism and nonprofit industries. He has worked for groups that include Local Organizing Committees, National Governing Bodies, Sports Commissions, Convention & Visitors Bureaus, Parks & Recreations, and Chambers of Commerce. In addition, he has worked with elected officials at the City, County/Parish, State and National levels.

He enjoys serving his community by creating meaningful connections and relationships that bring us closer together. He believes that the key to understanding each other are our unique cultures that, when combined, make our community better.

Brian Forman, CPRE

Director

Clermont, FL Parks and Recreation

Brian Forman serves as the Parks and Recreation Director in Clermont, FL with 30 years of dedicated public service and leadership experience in community development and recreation management.

Professional Background
30 Years of Experience: Managed diverse municipal park and recreation systems, community centers, and public green spaces.

Strategic Planning: Led large-scale capital improvement projects.
Community Engagement: Partnered with local boards, neighborhood groups, and volunteer organizations to boost public programming and participation.

Budget Management: Oversaw multi-million-dollar operating and capital budgets while securing state and federal grants for community enhancements.

Leadership Style:
Focuses on inclusive recreation for all age groups, from youth sports programs to senior wellness activities.

Believes in transparent communication and data-driven decision-making to improve public facilities and community programming.

Mentors upcoming parks professionals and fosters a collaborative workplace culture among city staff.

Education & Certification
Degree: MA - Athletic Administration
BS - Recreation Administration
Certifications: Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE)