Miranda Gagnon
Miranda Gagnon is the Parks and Recreation Supervisor for the City of Maitland, where she oversees the city’s 17 parks and leads the development of innovative programs, including sports such as tennis, pickleball, basketball, and soccer, as well as community wellness and leisure classes such as Latin dance, yoga, and health workshops. She is dedicated to fostering participation, inclusion, and community engagement through thoughtfully designed recreational experiences that encourage both youth and adults to stay active and connected. With a background in youth basketball coaching at middle school, high school, and AAU levels, as well as experience managing fitness facilities, Miranda brings hands-on coaching and program management expertise to her role. She emphasizes integrity, confidence, and continuous learning, pursuing certifications in sports fitness, coaching, and emergency management to strengthen her leadership and credibility. An AAU basketball coach she worked with during an early internship became a defining mentor, shaping her career path and inspiring a lifelong dedication to empowering and developing others. Originally from New Hampshire, Miranda moved to Florida in 2019 and is currently pursuing an MBA in Sport Management at the United States Sports University. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she volunteers and coaches with AAU basketball in Orlando, reflecting her passion for youth development and community service. Recognized for her impact and influence, she is slated to be featured among Florida’s Most Influential Women for 2026.
• CPR/AED/First Aid
• Heartsaver CPR AED Classroom
• Franklin Pierce University- Bachelor's
• United States Sports University- M.B.A.
• NRPA
• FRPA
• AAU
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of my mentors and confidants, the joy of coaching, and the ability to create a safe, confidence-building space for young people, combined with education and hands-on experience.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to seek mentors who challenge you, believe in you, and push you to say yes to opportunities even when you’re not fully ready.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering sports management is to go for it and stay open-minded—this field offers diverse opportunities and valuable skills that can shape your professional journey.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the key challenges in sports and recreation leadership is navigating a field that remains largely male-dominated, particularly at senior levels, while also supporting youth as they rebuild social confidence and connection post-COVID. Together, these challenges create an opportunity to lead with intention - advancing equity in leadership and designing programs that prioritize mentorship, inclusion, and youth development.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and confidence are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. They shape how I lead as a woman, how I mentor others intentionally, and how I create environments where young people feel supported, empowered, and capable of believing in themselves.