About Us

Sitting inconspicuously along Science Park Road is one of State College’s favorite summertime gathering places, the Science Park Recreation Association (SPRA). A friendly oasis in the hectic lives of our busy families, SPRA offers a place to sit back and truly relax. Our limited number of memberships assure a safe, comfortable swimming and recreational experience. SPRA is a member-owned and operated swimming facility and as such, we care about, and participate in the planning and care for OUR facility.  Just like you would your own place.

Today, after more than five decades of successful operation, SPRA remains a family-centered summer destination, catering to the needs of swimmers of all ages and abilities. It is managed by a board of governors who are SPRA members, elected by the SPRA membership. SPRA is far more than a pool; it is a summer lifestyle. We invite you to join us.

SPRA is more than just a pool. Its activities and amenities are sure to please everyone in the family. 

• Swimming Lessons: SPRA offers an extensive program for swimmers of all abilities.
• SPRA Dolphin Swim Team: This program is for swimmers up to age 18. SPRA is a member of the Central Pennsylvania Swim League (CPSL). After a season of typically 3 home and 3 away meets, plus championships for 2 age groups, we celebrate with a family banquet and awards ceremony.
• Fourth of July Follies: Games and activities are organized by the pool management for young and old alike. Festivities conclude with Rita’s ice.
• Raft Nights and other social activities: Scheduled periodically throughout the summer, these events offer extended swimming hours, age-appropriate activities, recreational volleyball and basketball tournaments, and other fun times..
• Water Basketball: For a change of pace, SPRA provides nets and balls for this poolside activity.
• Basketball hoop and court – for when you want to hoop on land!
• Lap Swimming: Members have the flexibility to swim laps at any time during regular swim hours in at least two reserved lap lanes. Members can also reserve a lane for morning lap swim.
• A Snack Bar: frozen treats, soft pretzels, soft drinks, water, Gatorade, candy, and snacks are available. Families are asked to set up concession accounts to pay for purchases.  Concessions accounts can be set up at the concession stand.
• Pool Rental: For members looking for a unique party idea, SPRA makes its facilities available for rent and includes the use of its gas grills and pavilion.

SPRA is located on four acres of land on Science Park Road in Ferguson Township. One of the best features is SPRA’s abundant green space with trees offering shade and open areas for catching rays or playing wiffle ball. You and your family can sit and relax without the stress of others crowding your space. SPRA includes a main pool, basketball hoops, changing room with showers, a snack bar, and utility buildings. 

• A main pool with “Z” design. An eight-lane, 25-yard pool is connected to a shallow area on one side and a diving well on the other side.
• Temperature controlled water for the comfort of swimmers.
• Stepped access into the shallow area to encourage confidence in beginning swimmers.
• A diving well with two boards.
• Abundant green-space with attractive landscaping and room to relax and/or play…

Diversity. Inclusion. Respect. They are more than just words to the members of SPRA. They are hard and fast principles that guide how we feel about each other and keys to how we allow our employees and members to “fit right in”. Everyone is welcome at SPRA.

The SPRA Board of Governors consists of a group of volunteers responsible for overseeing the management and strategic direction of SPRA.  If you are interested in serving on the Board, or volunteering to serve on committees run by board members, or have any questions contact spraboard@spramembers.com  We welcome and encourage you to get involved – it’s your pool.  SPRA is special because of the input, skills and involvement of its owners/members.

Here is a general description of the Board of Governors’ role and functions:

Governance and Policy Setting: The Board of Governors sets the organization’s mission, vision, values, and overall strategic goals. They establish policies and guidelines to guide the organization’s operations and ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.

Leadership and Oversight: The board provides leadership and oversight to the organization’s management team. The board also ensures that effective management practices are in place and monitors the organization’s financial performance, risk management, and overall operations.

Decision Making: The board makes critical decisions on behalf of the organization, such as approving major initiatives, investments, budgets, and significant policy changes. 

Fiduciary Responsibility: Board members have a fiduciary duty to act in the organization’s best interest. They ensure financial resources are managed responsibly, approve budgets, and monitor financial statements. 

Board Development: The board is responsible for its own composition and development. This includes recruiting and selecting new board members with diverse skills, expertise, and perspectives. 

Accountability and Transparency: The board is accountable to fellow members and maintains transparency and accountability in the organization’s activities. 

Overall, the Board of Governors is crucial in guiding the organization toward its strategic objectives, ensuring effective governance, and safeguarding its long-term success.

Bridget Donnelly, President, Personnel
Eric Blessner, Vice President, Membership, Media
Amy DuBois, Secretary
Mike Kijewski, Treasurer, Finance, Personnel

Eve Bellinger, Swim Team liaison
Bill Gardner, Pools and Grounds
Leard Huggins, Pools and Grounds