Norma Hertzog Community Center
1845 Park Ave
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Join Us for the Exciting MMASC Summer Session!
Theme: One Region, Many Teams: Coordinating Efforts Across Southern California
Are you ready to spark collaboration and celebrate unity? This year’s MMASC Summer Session draws inspiration from the global excitement of the FIFA World Cup, highlighting the power of teamwork across our region.
As Southern California prepares to host major global events—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games—this session will bring together cities, agencies, and local governments to share ideas, address challenges, and strengthen regional coordination.
Join us for engaging discussions, meaningful networking, and opportunities to collaborate with fellow leaders and changemakers. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking conversation shaping our region’s future.
Registration
Please note – a 3% processing fee will be included to registration credit card charges.
| Early Bird (April 20 – May 22, 2026) | Regular Rate (May 23 – July 2, 2026) | |
|---|---|---|
| MMASC Member | $130 | $140 |
| Nonmember | $150 | $160 |
Session Descriptions
Session #1
Different Backgrounds, One Team: Unique Journeys to Leadership
This session explores how diverse lived experiences shape leadership, strengthen regional collaboration, and build trust within our communities. Through candid conversation and personal storytelling, speakers will share the journeys that led them into leadership and the experiences that continue to influence how they lead today. Panelists will reflect on formative moments, cultural influences, personal challenges, and professional experiences that shaped their perspectives and leadership styles. From family and community to education and career pathways, the discussion will highlight how authenticity, resilience, and lived experience inform decision-making, communication, and community engagement
Session #2
North Orange County Public Safety Collaborative: A Case Study in Regional Coordination
Many of today’s most pressing challenges don’t stop at city boundaries – and neither should the solutions. This panel will spotlight the North Orange County Public Safety Collaborative as a leading example of how cities can work together, alongside community-based organizations and partner agencies, to deliver more effective and coordinated responses to complex public safety issues. Speakers will share real-world insights on building cross-jurisdictional partnerships, leveraging shared resources, and creating systems that prioritize outcomes over silos. Attendees will leave with practical strategies and replicable ideas to bring collaborative, regional solutions back to their own communities.
Session #3
Finding your Jam & Leading with Purpose
This session will explore how intentional leadership and strong workplace culture create the foundation for impactful community programs and services. Through real-world experiences and practical strategies, seasoned parks and recreation leader and coach Jason Chacon will share approaches to building trust, fostering accountability, and cultivating a collaborative team environment rooted in shared purpose. The discussion will highlight the importance of investing in staff development, promoting inclusivity, and empowering team members to grow both personally and professionally. Attendees will gain insight into how supportive workplace cultures can inspire innovation, strengthen communication, and create more responsive programs that better serve diverse communities. By prioritizing connection, collaboration, and relationship-building, agencies can break down silos, bolster partnerships across departments and jurisdictions, and build teams that are engaged, resilient, and community-focused. This session will provide both inspiration and practical tools for leaders seeking to create cohesive teams that deliver high-quality services while contributing to a stronger, more unified region.
Session #4
The Road to 2028: Mobilizing a Region for a Global Stage
As Southern California prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, local governments are stepping into a critical role in delivering one of the world’s largest and most complex global events. This panel brings together leaders from across Southern California to provide a behind-the-scenes look at how host cities and partners are preparing for the Games. Panelists will share insights on how their agencies are coordinating with the LA28, regional stakeholders, and private partners to plan for transportation, public safety, infrastructure, and community engagement. Through practical examples, the session will highlight the strategies and collaborations that allow multiple jurisdictions to work toward a unified goal. The lessons shared extend beyond the Games and offer valuable guidance for public sector professionals at any career stage.
For questions, please email Co-Chairs Brendan Pringle and Mark Jimenez at summersession@mmasc.org.
