Each year, NIRSA recognizes the dedication and commitment of its members with a variety of awards. These awards are chosen by committees made up of current NIRSA members with NIRSA Staff providing support.

Serving on a NIRSA awards committee is a great way to gain experience, recognize your outstanding colleagues, and learn more about some of the groundbreaking campus initiatives taking place in the profession. It also provides an excellent networking opportunity as you and your fellow committee members review and evaluate the applications.

The term for serving on most NIRSA awards committees is six months (July–December). With a shorter time commitment than most other NIRSA committees, these positions can be a perfect fit for someone who wants to be involved but has limited time to offer.

To apply for a NIRSA awards committee, fill out the application form by Wednesday, May 24. There are fields in the form to indicate your committee preference and whether you’re interested in serving as the chair for a committee.

NIRSA is currently accepting applications for the following awards committees:

Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award

The Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award Committee helps to recognize members who are transforming the field of collegiate recreation through outstanding programming and innovative service. The committee selects recipients in both an open division and a special division.

Creative Excellence Award

The Creative Excellence Awards Committee reviews applications for outstanding accomplishments in marketing and advertising materials.

Honor Award

The NIRSA Honor Award is the highest honor awarded by the Association. It recognizes a single member for outstanding achievements in the profession. Unlike other awards committees, the members of the Honor Award Committee serve a multi-year term.

Annual Service Award

The Annual Service Award Committee reviews nominations honoring individuals who have demonstrated exemplary volunteer service to NIRSA. Annual Service Awards are granted to both individuals and groups.

Outstanding Facilities Awards

The Outstanding Facilities Award Committee reviews applications from newly constructed or renovated facilities, selecting award recipients that demonstrate excellence in design and functionality.

William N. Wasson Student Leadership & Academic Awards

The Student Leadership & Academic Awards Committee will help review the nominations recognizing exceptional graduate and undergraduate students on college campuses.

Applications for NIRSA awards committees are being accepted through Wednesday, May 24. If you have questions about committee responsibilities or about submitting your application, please contact NIRSA Membership & Leadership Programs Coordinator Rachel Marcella.

Member Engagement Manager at  | NIRSA Profile

Natasha Fischer is currently the Member Engagement Manager at NIRSA.