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Every time I’m asked about an experience that’s worth the investment, NRPA’s Revenue Development and Management School makes the top of my list. Better known as “Revenue School,” this unique program takes place in mid-March at Oglebay Resort in West Virginia, consisting of a one-week immersion into all things revenue-related in the park and recreation profession in back-to-back years.

Heading there for my first year, I was nervous about not knowing anyone else who was attending, but I looked forward to what the schedule promised: a week of learning, about everything from philosophy and politics of revenue generation to measuring economic impact.

The most valuable experiences were the discussion and debate around those topics and their implications, being introduced to new concepts and tools that I could use right away, and a push to be more entrepreneurial. All the nervousness quickly evaporated, as the immersive setting made it easy to build what turned out to be life-long connections with fellow students and incredible instructors.

Since then, I’ve had the honor of becoming a graduate, extern and instructor. What I appreciate about Revenue School today is the same as my first day: an opportunity to take a deep dive into the important balance between the business acumen and commitment to purpose needed to be successful, and a chance to learn from and get inspired by a whole new cohort of professionals. For a school focused on investment, it should be no surprise that this opportunity produces a big return on investment.

Bobbi Nance, CPRP, is President at Recreation Results LLC.