On February 6, Trista Taylor, Deputy Parks & Recreation Director for the Village of Cottage Grove Parks, Recreation & Forestry, was awarded the Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association’s (WPRA) Young Professional of the Year Award in recognition of outstanding service to the parks and recreation profession and to WPRA early in her career.
Since joining Cottage Grove in 2020, Taylor has consistently demonstrated exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive under pressure. Her impressive ability to balance a demanding professional role with personal responsibilities proves her dedication to the field. Additionally, Taylor is an active member of both WPRA and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
As a 2015 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Taylor earned a Bachelor of Science in Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, with a minor in Coaching. She began her career as a Recreation Supervisor in Cottage Grove before advancing to her current role as Deputy Parks & Recreation Director. Taylor is also a Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) and a Certified Pool Operator (CPO).
Taylor’s passion for professional growth and leadership is evident in her active participation in both local and national organizations. She has been an integral part of WPRA since 2020, contributing to the conference committee from 2023 to 2024 and taking on key roles such as Pre-Chair in 2025 and will be the Conference Chair in 2026. As an NRPA member, she serves on the Leadership & Development Committee and will assume the role of Secretary for the committee in 2025.
Her dedication to both her profession and her community has earned her recognition as a rising star in the field. Trista Taylor’s exceptional service and commitment to excellence make her a deserving recipient of the WPRA Young Professional of the Year Award.
Background: Young Professional of the Year Award
This award was established in 2001 recognizing one outstanding young professional from each section for their exemplary work early in their career. In 2020, this award was amended to select one young professional from all the sections combined who stood out over the rest. The award is now recognized as one of the most prestigious awards given out by the Association. This award will be presented to a WPRA member who is currently working as either a full-time or permanent part-time professional in the field, with seven or less years of service. The recipient is driven, passionate for the profession, and shows early promise to be an influential leader in the field.
Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association (WPRA)
Founded in 1965, the Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association (WPRA) is a statewide membership association that represents over 1,600 individuals delivering a broad spectrum of services in Wisconsin. WPRA provides professionals and agencies with leadership, engaged communities, advocacy and development opportunities to promote the benefits of park, recreation, environmental and cultural services throughout Wisconsin.