Maleah Gonzalez

Maleah Gonzalez’s journey into the field of parks and recreation began with a summer job at her local pool and recreation center when she was just 16 years old. Little did she know this experience would spark a passion for community-focused work that has guided her college career at the Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE).  

“I started working at the pool and rec center every summer, and it really shaped my view on what I wanted to do with my career,” Gonzalez said. “I loved being able to interact with the community, and I knew this was something I wanted to pursue.” 

Gonzalez, a sophomore majoring in parks and recreation management, initially enrolled as an education major; but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. After discovering the Parks and Recreation Management (PARK) undergraduate program, she found her true calling.  

“I was drawn to the newness of the major,” she said. “It’s exciting to be a part of something that’s still growing. There’s a lot of potential in this field.” 

The program may be small currently, but for Gonzalez, that is a strength; not a weakness.  

“There aren’t many of us in the major right now which creates a unique opportunity to build close relationships with professors and fellow students,” she said. “You really get to know people here, and that’s something I value.” 

Those relationships have played a key role in Gonzalez’s education. Through courses such as Leadership in Parks and Recreation and Safety, Risk and Legal Aspects of Parks, Recreation, and Sport Facility Management, she has built a solid foundation in her studies and with her peer group. The greatest benefit, however, has been the mentorship from her professors.   

“The professors at the CFWE go above and beyond to support us,” Gonzalez said. “They give us the tools to network, build relationships with companies and prepare us for life after graduation.” 

A standout experience for Gonzalez was attending the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, with Allie McCreary, assistant professor in the PARK program.  

“The NRPA Conference provided students with a valuable opportunity to network and learn from over 8,000 professionals in the park and recreation industry,” McCreary said. “Attending the conference was truly eye-opening for the students, showing them the diversity of the recreation industry and the value of professional development for career success.”  

The CFWE also gave Gonzalez a fresh perspective on sustainability and the environment, both of which are key objectives of managing parks and recreation practices.  

“Moving to the CFWE really opened my eyes to how we live our day-to-day lives,” Gonzalez said. “It gave me a fresh perspective on sustainability and the environment.”

Gonzalez and her supervisor, Maura Toohey, walk and discuss at the Lake Wilmore Recreation Center.

Gonzalez recently took a major step in her career by accepting a position at the newly constructed Lake Wilmore Recreation Center in Auburn, Alabama. The facility is home to a wide variety of amenities, including two full-sized basketball courts, locker rooms, activity rooms, fitness rooms, an elevated indoor walking track, covered pickleball courts, party rooms, conference rooms and lap and zero-entry pools featuring shallow areas for lessons.

Gonzalez’s role is centered on lifeguarding, but she’s eager to grow and take on more responsibilities.  

“The new center is amazing,” she said. “There really is something for everyone here. It’s a great resource for our community.” 

For current and future students considering a career in parks and recreation, Gonzalez offers her advice.  

“This field has so many different opportunities and there is always something to suit your personal goals and abilities.” 

As Gonzalez continues her studies at the CFWE, she is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. With the support of her professors, advisors and new experiences at the Lake Wilmore Recreation Center, Gonzalez is well on her way to making a meaningful impact in the field of parks and recreation.