Some projects are just close to your heart. For me, leading the volunteer taskforce that was responsible for drafting the new Strategic Plan for the NIRSA Championship Series was exactly that—a passion project, rooted in deep love and respect for The Series, and the people who make it what it is.
This collective of volunteers was more than a standing committee or work team; it was a carefully selected team of individuals whose unique strengths came together to build something that will carry The Series forward for the next three to five years! The Strategic Plan that emerged is the next chapter in a story that had its beginning long before any of us made our debut contributions; it is a continuation of the groundwork laid during The Series 2.0 evolution and a reflection of the generations of volunteers who have built, shaped, and evolved the NIRSA Championship Series through their time, energy, and commitment.
We didn’t approach this task lightly. We knew we’d be carrying forward something bigger than ourselves, and that sensibility is a big reason why every person on this task force was recruited to serve. Each brought a distinct voice, a critical lens, and a shared belief that The Series deserves creative vision and thoughtful direction, rooted in the same values that keep us all coming back. Let me introduce you to the rest of the task force:
Nikki Vance
Nikki, a teammate of mine on the NIRSA Championship Series Executive Committee, brought clarity and action to our vision. She’s the kind of leader who not only sees the path forward but also rolls up her sleeves and works to get us there. Her voice ensured that our Strategic Plan wasn’t just a static document, but instead a tool built for use. As Nikki puts it: “The Series has been a huge part of all of our personal and professional growth, so having the opportunity to give back and craft the Strategic Plan was not something any of us took lightly… Our hope is that these priorities will help guide our growth now and continue to lay a strong foundation for the future.”
Max Miller
Max brought a legacy of leadership and a love for the participant experience, especially for NIRSA soccer tournaments. He’s been a tournament volunteer or staff member countless times, but he never loses sight of the impact that each event has on the individual level. Max asks the tough questions, the kind that make you stop and rethink your assumptions. His voice kept us focused, grounded, and accountable to the people we serve.
Yadira Soto
Yadira represents not just the present, but the future of The Series. With a growing resume and a steady presence, she’s becoming a rising leader in NIRSA, especially NIRSA soccer. Yadira reminded us that it’s not always the loudest voice that carries the most weight. When she spoke in our meetings, we all listened. She offered insight that helped us see around corners and anticipate what’s needed for the next generation of leaders and participants.
Paden Alie
Paden does everything: Chaired multiple Championship Series Work Teams, Officials Committee Director, rule book expert, and Excel wizard. He has the rare gift of pointing out systemic problems while also offering real, thoughtful solutions. His critical eye sharpened our process, and his commitment to quality made our work better every single step of the way. As Paden shares:
“Being selected to work on the Strategic Plan was such an honor. I’ve invested so much into NIRSA, and being able to shape the direction that the organization continues to move is something that I didn’t take lightly. So many people are stakeholders in NIRSA events, work teams, and committees—being one of the few selected to be contribute to the conversations around revising the Strategic Plan gave me an opportunity to represent those who have shared their opinions with me, both positive and negative.”
Relationships are at the heart of The Series
I consider it an honor to have chaired this Task Force. But it’s been more than that; I had the joy of watching this team bring their full selves to the table. We asked some really hard questions. We revisited old assumptions. We dreamed big and wrestled with the practical implications of our decisions. We moved commas and debated usage distinctions between the words for and of, among other. In the end, we drafted the Series Strategic Plan to guide decisions across tournaments, specialized work teams, and volunteer leadership conversations for years to come.
But, most importantly, we did it together—and that spirit of connection is what The Series is all about.
This plan isn’t just about goals and strategies. It’s about keeping the door open for others. It’s about giving future volunteers even more opportunities to grow, connect, and belong than the ones that invited us into this work! Because the relationships we’ve built with one another, and with The Series itself, are what make this work worth it.
They truly are the Heart of the Series.
Check out my 1-on-1 with Lamont Mayer Jr.
Each “1-on-1: Live with the NIRSA Live Host” episode dives deep with campus rec leaders, rising stars, and game changers across the NIRSA network. Real talk. Real stories. Real impact. I caught up with Lamont earlier this month to talk about The Series. Check it out:
- For more information, contact NIRSA Director of National Sports Programs, Nicole Jackson.
Stephanie Calhoun is currently the Assistant Director of Recreation Facilities at Georgia Southern University andis the Chair of the NIRSA Championship Series Executive Committee; you can email her at scalhoun@georgiasouthern.edu.
