As we turn towards the promise of a new year, NIRSA is thrilled to announce the opening of registration for its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Conference and Campus Rec & Wellness Expo. This flagship event is a beacon for professionals and students in the field of recreational sports, offering a platform for learning, networking, and exploring the latest trends and innovations.

Centering belonging and cultivating community

With a theme of “Centering Belonging and Cultivating Community,” NIRSA 2024 promises to be an unparalleled experience for those committed to advancing the world of campus recreation and wellbeing.

See related: “NIRSA JDEI Implementation Team updates: Fostering belonging

NIRSA’s signature event attracts professionals, students, and industry leaders from across the globe. The 74th in-person annual conference is set to take place from April 17-20, 2024, and is certain to provide a dynamic forum for the exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and the discoveries of the latest advancements in the field. Happening in Phoenix, Arizona, the conference venue was selected to inspire collaboration and engagement among attendees.

See related: “A look into factors that influence site selection for NIRSA events

In addition to old favorites, new conference features are being planned to enhance your NIRSA experience. In 2024, NIRSA will be identifying specialized educational pathways geared specifically towards students and directors; the student track and directors track will be highlighted in the program. There will be exciting tournaments and lots of opportunities to connect with fellow recreation and wellbeing educators and enthusiasts.

New details are being added weekly to the NIRSA 2024 website, but below is just a shortlist of a few exciting highlights.

Key highlights

Diverse educational sessions

The conference agenda is meticulously crafted by the NIRSA Conference Program Committee to include a wide array of educational sessions, workshops, roundtables, and panel discussions. Expert speakers will delve into topics ranging from innovative programming and facility management to inclusive practices and the role of campus recreation in higher education.

The full conference schedule should be available online in January.

Connection opportunities

One of the biggest draws of the NIRSA Annual Conference is the chance to connect with like-minded professionals and industry experts. Attendees can participate in networking events, roundtable discussions, and social activities designed to foster belonging through meaningful connection and collaboration. Be sure to check out:

There will be something for everyone to center belonging and cultivate community.

Expo showcase

The Campus Rec & Wellness Expo is a can’t-miss experience to discover groundbreaking ideas and cutting-edge products and services for facilities and programs. An immersive, hands-on event, the Campus Rec & Wellness Expo features multiple opportunities for networking, play, and inspiration. This year’s Expo Hall welcomes some new, exciting activities for attendees and some old favorites. Be sure to explore:

Professional development

Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, the conference offers concentrated opportunities for professional development. Attendees can earn continuing education credits for the CSAEd certification through participation in select sessions and workshops.

Embrace the latest additions to the conference lineup and make the most out of your time at the 2024 NIRSA Annual Conference and Campus Rec & Wellness Expo. Register early to ensure the lowest registration rates, spot in preconference activities, and access to discounted hotel rooms within our official conference hotel room blocks; early bird discounts end on March 6.

  • For more information, contact NIRSA Director of Professional Development Brittany Rejda.
Director of Professional Development at  | NIRSA Profile

Brittany Rejda is currently the Director of Learning at NIRSA.