Keeping Up

Lisa Jost Retires After 37 Years in Parks and Recreation

Lisa Jost retired as the community center manager for Maple Grove Parks and Recreation in February of 2022. She says, “I worked there for 26 years, striving to make the Maple Grove Community Center the ‘heart of the community.’ Prior to Maple Grove, my career began as an intern for the Rosemount Parks and Recreation in 1984. I worked for over 11 years in various capacities. As the fi rst recreation programmer for the City of Rosemount, I gained valuable experiences in programming, special events, and facility operations. I served as the community center manager for the Rosemount Community Center/National Guard facility before transitioning to Maple Grove.” Jost grew up in St. Cloud, and says her parents kept her family active by participating in a variety of sports, music, outdoor activities, and volunteer opportunities in the community. “I discovered the fi eld of parks and recreation through a friend who was in therapeutic recreation at St. Cloud State University (SCSU). Getting into a fi eld offering a diversity of activities that could make a positive difference in the health and well-being for people of all ages and capabilities, intrigued me. Working in community facilities that incorporated activities I grew up with, captured my interest. I received a Bachelor of Science in parks and recreation administration from SCSU.” Jost says she was fortunate to be part of the construction, start-up and ongoing operations for both community centers in Rosemount and Maple Grove. “The most unique experience at the Maple Grove Community Center was a visit from President Bush in 2005,” states Jost. “Supporting staff in facility projects over the years was also rewarding since the City of Maple Grove takes pride in building topquality park facilities and programs.” She became involved in MRPA while working in Rosemount. “There was a network of programmers known as the South of the River group,” adds Jost. “Colleagues in this group introduced me to MRPA by getting me involved in the programming and facilities groups in the late 80s. I chaired the facility section for a few years, receiving the MRPA Merit award in 2004.” Jost says networking with MRPA colleagues provided endless benefi ts. “I could not have done my job as successfully without the ongoing support of MRPA professionals who shared their valuable expertise, insight on industry trends and best practices as well as moral support,” she states. Jost advises everyone to get involved in MRPA. “It’s worthwhile at any level of participation,” she adds. “And the inspiration and support from the MRPA staff is above and beyond customer service. A note of appreciation to Michelle, Deb, Bethani, and previous staff who have been the foundation of the organization.” She also thanks all the MRPA members for their response to new ideas in order to keep up with trends and meet the challenges of the ever-changing world. “Your unwavering support, innovation, and communication keep us connected and inspired,” Jost says. “Be proud that you have made a positive impact on millions of lives with your dedication to the parks and recreation fi eld. Many thanks to all!”

ATTENTION: Recent Retirees

If you have recently retired from your parks and recreation career, please inform Bethani Gerhard at 763-571-1305 ext. 109, or gerhard@mnrpa.org. We will add your name and mailing address to the complimentary retiree membership. Also, let us know if you’d like to be featured after your retirement in the Keeping Up portion of the magazine. Thank you!