Attendees overwhelmingly appreciate the many opportunities at a NIRSA Annual Conference to strengthen relationships and make new connections. Conference organizers are excited about the lineup of networking opportunities that are planned for NIRSA 2023! Here are just a few of the networking highlights that you can look forward to in Pittsburgh, PA.
Breakfast and Connections
Students and professionals alike, don’t miss out on this Annual Conference favorite! For the second year, the Student Leadership Team will help facilitate “Breakfast and Connections” on Friday, March 24 from 9:30am–10:30am in the Expo immediately following the mainstage session. This is an excellent opportunity for you to interact with the great minds in our association and share your passion for collegiate recreation. All conference attendees are encouraged to participate in this networking experience. The Student Leadership Team will be pairing individuals before coming to Pittsburgh, but if you don’t have a partner prior to the event, visit the NZone and we’ll find you a match.
NIRSA socials
A great way to build connections is through attending NIRSA socials which are free to all Annual Conference attendees. This year’s must-see All Conference Social will be held at the Heinz History Center, Pennsylvania’s largest history museum. Bring your walking shoes as this six-floor nonstop entertainment building will keep you amazed for hours. That’s not all! Show off your dance moves with one of Pittsburgh’s top-rated DJs! If your body needs a rest from all the entertainment, don’t forget to check out all the local tasty treats that will be presented throughout the social.
The All Conference Social isn’t the only way to connect with attendees. The Founders People of Color Social and the LGBTQ & Allies Social are other great ways to let loose and engage with other attendees. Both the Founders People of Color Social and the LGBTQ & Allies Social are sponsored by PLAE and LifeFitness.
NZone
NIRSA is bringing back the NZone at this year’s Annual Conference! This dedicated networking space will offer attendees numerous networking opportunities as well as some fun interactive games. Interested in furthering your career in campus recreation? “Talk to an Industry Expert” is one of the many activities that will be going on in the NZone. This amazing opportunity is designed for you to pick the brains of someone who currently holds a position that you wish to have someday. Make sure to stop by the NZone for different opportunities to enhance your career!
Regional meetups
NIRSA is hosting devoted networking spaces for attendees to build connections within their own region. Attend your NIRSA region’s regional meetup on Friday, March 24 at 5:15pm Eastern to celebrate award recipients, catch up with old friends, and meet some new ones!
NIRSA Campus Rec & Wellness Expo
Not only is the Campus Rec & Wellness Expo the place to see the latest and greatest in products and services for campus rec facilities, it’s also your opportunity to build your list of industry partners. Expo vendors are eager to meet you and discuss the potential to partner in serving your campus community now and into the future. On average, one in six exhibitors are new to NIRSA—so don’t miss out on the cutting edge and the standard bearers for the profession.
Volunteer
Every year, NIRSA members across all regions offer their time and expertise to help ensure the Annual Conference goes as smoothly as possible. We couldn’t do it all without you! There are many available volunteer opportunities to choose from—keep the Career Services Center running smoothly, support the NIRSA Foundation at the T-shirt and Apparel Sale, greet attendees at conference registration, or find yet another opportunity that fits your schedule and talents. Learn more about volunteer commitments and sign up today. Volunteering is a great and unique way to connect with conference attendees!
Join your peers from across the Association in Pittsburgh this spring as the profession continues to build bridges and move forward together! Early bird registration for NIRSA 2023 runs through Wednesday, February 8. Register today to take advantage of discounted rates and to receive access to the best selection of hotel rooms!
- For more information, please contact NIRSA Learning.
Brooke Ruot is currently the Events Coordinator at NIRSA.
Taylor Barnett is currently the Events Coordinator at NIRSA Headquarters; you can reach her at taylor.barnett@nirsa.org.
