Antonio Gonzalez
University of South Florida

What is your NIRSA “Why”? (What does NIRSA mean to you?)

Stepping into my office, the first thing you will see is an overwhelming collection of memories and connections that I have accumulated over my NIRSA journey. The photos, badges, nameplates, and cards serve as a testament to the profound impact that this organization has had on my life and career. The fact that I can look back on 16 years of one thing is a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and support that defines the essence of our community.

As I think most people in our association would agree, the heart of NIRSA undeniably lies in its members, whose unwavering commitment and support form the cornerstone of its existence. It is NIRSA, though, that provides us with the opportunities where we can seek guidance, share experiences, and draw strength from one another. The lifeforce of this organization comes together through the collective spirit of collaboration, mutual support, and a shared dedication of the association and its members to foster a vibrant culture of wellness within our various communities.

As I reflect on my time with NIRSA, it becomes evident that this organization is not merely a professional network but a place of personal enrichment. It has been the starting place for enduring friendships and has served as a consistent rock of unwavering support during my time as a student and professional. Its influence truly touches every aspect of my life, shaping my values, perspectives, and aspirations.

What are the current trends in collegiate recreation and higher education that you see impacting our work and the Association? How would you collaborate with the members in your region and the Member Network team to solve these issues?

In recent years, the evolving political landscape within academia has posed a significant challenge to fostering inclusive programming in collegiate recreation. Shifting policies, budget constraints, and ideological changes have negatively influenced the allocation of resources, creating obstacles in our mission to cultivate diverse and welcoming environments. By engaging in constructive dialogue, fostering strategic partnerships, and advocating at higher levels for policies that prioritize the work that we do within collegiate recreation, we can work toward creating a more resilient and adaptable framework that can withstand the impact of political changes while championing the values held by NIRSA and its members.

Additionally, pay equity, work-life balance, and overall attrition in higher education remain pressing concerns in collegiate recreation. While I believe in the value that we as professionals do what we do because of our passion, not for our paychecks, it is evident now that our compensation has fallen below the means and values that competitive fields outside of higher education can provide. This issue requires a comprehensive approach that involves the collection and distribution of transparent pay scales across our members, creating tools for institutional leaders to assist in advocating for our members, and supporting our members through reduced or no-cost initiatives that provide developmental spaces for them to engage in.

How has your experience in your state, region, and/or NIRSA prepared you to serve on the Member Network? What unique skills or talents would you bring to the Member Network?

My involvement within NIRSA, including my roles as the NIRSA Esports Task Force Co-chair, NIRSA Collegiate Esports Virtual Institute Chair, and NIRSA Championship Series Assessment Work Team Chair, along with various Region 2 work teams, has equipped me with a diverse skill set and a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics of collegiate recreation. These leadership and participatory roles have provided me with firsthand insights into the evolving landscape of recreation and the challenges and opportunities that shape our field.

As I mentioned before, our challenges in accessing affordable opportunities to develop will continue to be a space that we should seek to expand into. In my tenure as the NIRSA Collegiate Esports Virtual Institute Chair, I learned how to curate immersive learning experiences, leveraging virtual platforms to facilitate knowledge exchange and professional development among our members. Through fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, considering affordability and access, I hope to be able to actively contribute to the advancement and creation of on-going engagement opportunities for all of our members and the programs in which they oversee.

I bring to the Member Network a unique blend of strategic foresight, technological acumen, and a deep-seated commitment to promoting diversity and innovation within the realm of collegiate recreation. My proficiency in leveraging virtual platforms, my adeptness at fostering collaborative partnerships, and my dedication to fostering inclusive and engaging programming are key attributes that I aim to leverage in spearheading impactful initiatives and advocating for the collective interests of our diverse member base. By promoting a culture of collaboration and excellence, I aspire to contribute to the collective growth and development of our association and its members.