Are you ready to take your career in campus recreation to the next level? The NIRSA Foundation is thrilled to announce that scholarship opportunities for both 2024 and 2025 events are now open! Whether you’re aiming to attend the 2024 NIRSA Recreation Facilities Institute, presented by Mondo in partnership with Athletic Business; the 2025 NIRSA Conference & Campus Rec Expo; or the 2025 Emerging Recreational Sports Leaders Conference (ERSLC), we’ve got you covered with more opportunities than ever before!

There are many reasons to consider applying for a NIRSA Foundation scholarship to attend one of these fantastic events! These professional development opportunities allow attendees to connect with leaders in the field, aids them in expanding their knowledge and skillset, and supports them in elevating their career with the whole-hearted support of the NIRSA community.

2024 NIRSA Recreation Facilities Institute

Apply by Sunday, October 13 for a scholarship to attend the 2024 NIRSA Recreation Facilities Institute, presented by Mondo in partnership with Athletic Business! This institute is your chance to dive deep into the world of planning, constructing, renovating, and operating recreational sports facilities! Active NIRSA membership is required to apply for this scholarship.

2025 NIRSA Conference & Campus Rec Expo

Get ready to feel inspired at the 2025 NIRSA Conference & Campus Rec Expo! This can’t-miss event will take place in sunny Orlando, Florida from April 23–26. This is the event of the year for campus rec professionals—it offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and professional growth. Apply for a scholarship to attend NIRSA 2025 by Wednesday, November 20. While active NIRSA membership is not required to apply for a scholarship, active membership is required to accept a scholarship to this event.

2025 Emerging Recreational Sports Leaders Conference

The 2025 Emerging Recreational Sports Leaders Conference, which will take place at Howard University in Washington D.C. from February 19–21, is dedicated to empowering minority students. Through educational programming, mentorship opportunities, and career networking, the ERSL Conference helps students build a foundation for a meaningful career in the field of collegiate recreation. Apply for a scholarship to attend the ERSL Conference by Wednesday, November 20! While professionals applying for a scholarship must have an active NIRSA membership, students may apply for a scholarship regardless of current membership status.

Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to advance your career and make lasting connections in the field of campus recreation! Apply today and take the first step towards a brighter future!

Scholarships and travel grants are available thanks to our generous donors! Gifts from NIRSA members, corporate partners, and other campus rec supporters have allowed the NIRSA Foundation to provide over 1,000 scholarships (and counting) to date!

  • If you have questions about an application, please contact NIRSA Foundation Coordinator Jillian McNaughton. If you want to learn how you can help expand scholarship opportunities, please contact NIRSA Director of Philanthropy Becky Sowers.
Headshot of Jillian McNaughton
Foundation Coordinator | NIRSA Profile

Jillian McNaughton is currently the Foundation Coordinator at NIRSA.