Dr. Nathan Schaumleffel, Associate Professor of Political Science in Indiana State University’s College of Arts and Sciences, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), one of the highest professional honors in the parks, recreation and conservation field.
Schaumleffel will be formally inducted during the Academy’s Annual Networking Reception and Awards Dinner on September 30, 2026, held in conjunction with the 2026 National Recreation and Park Association Conference in Philadelphia.
Election to the Academy recognizes distinguished leaders whose careers demonstrate exceptional service, visionary leadership and lasting contributions to parks, recreation and conservation, as well as outstanding service to the communities they serve. Academy Fellows include accomplished practitioners, educators, urban directors and advocates who have helped advance quality of life through parks, recreation and conservation.
Membership in AAPRA is determined through a rigorous nomination and peer-review process and is limited to 150 active members, of which only 25 can be educators. Candidates must demonstrate a distinguished record of professional achievement, leadership, service to the profession and meaningful contributions to parks, recreation, conservation, tourism, sports management or related fields.
“The Academy is honored to welcome the Class of 2026,” said Elizabeth S. Kessler, President of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration and Executive Director of the McHenry County Conservation District in Woodstock, Illinois. “This distinguished class represents exceptional leadership, innovation, and service from across the country.”
Kessler noted that the collective experience and commitment to public service represented by the new Fellows will strengthen the Academy and help inspire the next generation of leaders. The 2026 class is also among the Academy’s largest and most diverse, representing professionals from public agencies, higher education, nonprofit organizations and the private sector.
Founded in 1980, AAPRA works to advance excellence in the administration of parks, recreation and conservation through leadership, research, education, mentoring and public service. The Academy promotes innovation, supports scholarly research, recognizes exemplary leadership and provides a national voice on issues shaping the future of the profession.
Schaumleffel’s election recognizes his professional leadership and contributions to the field while bringing national recognition to Indiana State University and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Additional information is available through the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration.