Education
University of Iowa - Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation
Scholarly Contributions
Crawford's contributions include co-authoring chapters in Inclusive Recreation (2010) and Inclusive Leisure (2023). Recognized as an Outstanding Professional in Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation, Crawford has also been featured in national training videos for NRPA.
Through practitioner-focused articles in Illinois Parks & Recreation and AAPRA publications, she provides vital strategies for behavior management and accessibility. Her extensive body of work offers the practical leadership and thought-driven strategies necessary to build equitable recreation environments for diverse communities.
Featured Publications
Crawford, T. (2023). *Best Practices in Administrative Inclusion.* In **Inclusive Leisure: A Strengths-Based Approach** (Human Kinetics).
This chapter provides practical strategies for leaders and administrators seeking to embed inclusive practices into organizational culture, policy, and program delivery within parks, recreation, and leisure service agencies.
Crawford, T. (2010). *Introduction to Inclusion.* In **Inclusive Recreation: Programs and Services for Diverse Populations** (Human Kinetics).
A foundational chapter outlining key concepts, philosophies, and frameworks that guide inclusive recreation services and equitable access for individuals of diverse abilities and backgrounds.
Crawford, T. (1999). *Behavior Management and Recreation Programs.* **Illinois Parks & Recreation Magazine.** This practitioner-focused article explores effective behavior management strategies within recreation settings, offering practical tools for professionals working with diverse participant needs in community programs.
Leadership & Professional Service
Crawford is a prolific leader in parks and therapeutic recreation. Since 1990, she has held top executive roles, serving as President of the National Therapeutic Recreation Society, the American Therapeutic Recreation Association, and the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. She is currently President-Elect of the National Academy for Recreational Therapists.
In Illinois, Crawford chaired the IPRA Board and co-founded the Illinois Park and Recreation Foundation. Her career is defined by advancing DEIB and JEDI initiatives through various task forces and international committees, earning her the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award for community service.
Professional Awards & Recognition
Crawford’s distinguished career is marked by prestigious honors in recreational therapy and inclusion. Nationally, she earned the Meritorious Service and Member of the Year awards from the National Therapeutic Recreation Society, alongside the Excellence in Inclusion Award. In Illinois, her leadership was recognized with the IPRA Chairman’s Award and Professional of the Year. Her profound impact culminated in the 2023 Robert Artz Lifetime Achievement Award, the state’s highest honor for park and recreation professionals. These accolades reflect her lifelong dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and accessibility within the field.