The Awards Steering Committee has been busy this summer conducting a review of the many awards provided through NIRSA. This group of members was convened in 2025 to review the awards process holistically. The Committee’s charges focused on aligning awards with NIRSA’s strategic framework; reviewing and maintaining an equitable nomination process and selection criteria; increasing overall effectiveness and impact of awards; and fostering a culture of recognition within the NIRSA membership.
The committee looked critically at award goals, historical context, selection criteria, and application statistics, in the context of NIRSA’s current strategic priorities and values. Updates were made to selection criteria, eligibility information, and some review periods for the work were expanded. We anticipate that the committee’s work will continue in future years to update other awards and continue to hone the Association’s awards and recognition process.
Ahead of this year’s application cycle, our committee reviewed the following awards:
- Horace Moody Award
- NIRSA Annual Service Award
- Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award
- Creative Excellence Awards
- William N. Wasson Student Leadership & Academic Awards
A key part of our work included evaluating the application fee structure that has historically been tied to some awards. We are excited to announce that:
- The Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award and the Creative Excellence Awards no longer have individual membership requirements
- The Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award application submissions will be available at no cost for institutional members
These changes are intended to reduce barriers to nominations for awards, encourage broader participation, and continue to showcase the high-quality work happening across our Association.
Applications for all NIRSA awards are now open. This is your chance to recognize outstanding contributions and innovative programs across the profession. Start preparing your nominations and be part of a culture of celebrating excellence in campus recreation!
Opportunity to help select award recipients
The Awards Steering Committee is looking for member assistance in reviewing award applications and nominations for this year’s cohort of award recipients! We are inviting members who are looking for impactful, short-term volunteer experience. The award review period happens between November and December 2025. This is a great opportunity to highlight the great work happening across NIRSA!
To learn more about what’s involved or apply, check out the application form.
- For more information, visit the awards page of the NIRSA website or contact NIRSA Member Engagement Manager Natasha Fischer.
Abby Van Note is currently Coordinator of Instructional & Inclusive Programs at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Brooke Turner is currently the Associate Director of Programs at The University of Alabama; you can email her at brooke.turner@ua.edu.
