Gail Ito, CTRS has been a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for over 40 years. She has worked in long term care, and psychiatric and chemical dependence settings. In addition, Gail has taught college in recreation and physical education at Northeastern Illinois University and Chicago State University. Gail has spoken extensively and organized workshops in therapeutic recreation for the Midwest Symposium on Therapeutic Recreation, the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association (IPRA) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). She has a BS and MS in recreation from the University of Illinois in Champaign and a Doctorate in Education from Northern Illinois University. Gail enjoys consulting in activities in staff management, activity programming, interpretation of state regulations, and dealing with difficult behaviors.
TRACI L. PARETI, CTRS
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist / Certified Dementia Practitioner / Instructor
With 28 years of experience in therapeutic recreation, Traci L. Pareti is a highly respected Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP). Specializing in education and training for long-term care facilities, Traci has worked with both private and not-for-profit sectors, offering invaluable expertise in dementia care and program development. Throughout her career, Traci has held key roles, including Dementia Special Care Coordinator and instructor for Dementia Care, where she has passionately contributed to improving the lives of residents through education. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Administration from Eastern Illinois University and has developed deep expertise in serving geriatric and psychiatric populations in long-term care settings. Traci’s areas of expertise include advancements in dementia care (with a focus on Person-Centered Care), program evaluation, regulatory compliance (both state and federal), recreation administration, and staff development. She recently launched a comprehensive 42-Hour Activity Director Course, which includes 6 hours of specialized dementia training, and she plays an active role in the Ohio Activity Professionals Bootcamp Workshop held twice a year. A dedicated member of the National Association for Activity Professionals, Traci is also involved with various state healthcare organizations such as the Illinois Healthcare Association and Ohio Health Care Association. Outside of her professional life, Traci is a passionate Chicago Cubs fan and enjoys spending her free time on the lake.