State Parks Association recognizes WCPRC & Sen. Sue Shink
(L to R): Meghan Bonfiglio, Washtenaw County Parks Director, and Senator Sue Shink. Photo courtesy of WCPRC.
submitted by Ann M. Ziolkowski, Communications Manager, Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission
At the recent mParks Annual Conference & Trade Show in Lansing, the Michigan Recreation and Park Association recognized outstanding leadership and innovation in parks and recreation across the state, honoring both Senator Sue Shink and the Washtenaw County Parks & Recreation Commission (WCPRC).
Senator Shink (who represents Freedom and Sharon townships in the Manchester area) received the mParks Elected Official Award after being nominated by Washtenaw County Parks. The award recognizes elected officials who demonstrate exceptional leadership and support for parks, recreation, and conservation. “Senator Shink has worked tirelessly to support parks, natural areas, and trails throughout Washtenaw County and we’re so thankful to have had an opportunity to recognize her service through mParks,” stated Parks Director Meghan Bonfiglio. A longtime advocate for outdoor recreation and natural resource protection, Senator Shink has championed investments in parks, trails, and land preservation throughout southeast Michigan. Prior to serving in the Michigan Senate, she served as Chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners and previously chaired WCPRC.
WCPRC also received the mParks Website Award for its Find Your Wild! website application, created by Parks planner Matthew Bertrand. Launched in February 2025, the interactive platform helps residents and visitors easily explore the county’s 43 parks and nature preserves by quickly answering common questions and allowing users to search for specific outdoor experiences. Ms. Bonfiglio shared, “This tool encourages people to connect with nature in Washtenaw County—perfect for folks looking to ‘find their wild’ in places like Baker Woods Preserve, County Farm Park, and West Lake Preserve.” The application also encourages community participation by allowing users to contribute geotagged photos of wildlife, landscapes, and trails. In its first nine months, Find Your Wild! has inspired 38,419 visitors to discover and explore Washtenaw County’s parks and natural areas. You can find it here: washtenaw.org/3868/Find-Your-Wild
These statewide recognitions highlight the continued leadership, innovation, and community engagement that support parks and recreation across Washtenaw County.
Matthew Bertrand, Washtenaw County Parks planner. Photo courtesy of WCPRC.
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