The NIRSA family contains inspiring members who lead by example, embrace generosity, cultivate gratitude, and impact the future of our profession by helping the NIRSA Foundation provide meaningful resources and opportunities. You can recognize the dedication of your colleagues and mentors who pay it forward to the next generation of campus rec leaders by nominating them for the 2020 NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award! Nominations opened on August 12 and are due Friday, November 15.
“It’s always heartwarming and totally inspiring to read the nominations and discover how many people make such a positive impact,” says Deb Johnson, RCRSP, NIRSA Foundation Board member, Chair of the NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award Committee, and Director of Recreation at University of California-Davis. “As Board members, we get to see the great work of our members throughout the year. It’s our focus, and this award opens a window for others to see what we see each day.”
The NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award, presented annually at the NIRSA Annual Conference, recognizes an individual or group that has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the NIRSA Foundation through exceptional contributions of time, talent, and treasure.
The Foundation is involved in work that supports some of the most crucial pieces of NIRSA’s mission and strategic plan. This award distinguishes those who have provided leadership to the Association through active participation in and support of the NIRSA Foundation and its mission.
Last year’s recipient, Tom Kirch, says he is honored to have received the award and adds that “to be included in the same group of past recipients whom I admire, and aspire to be, is overwhelming.” He emphasizes the importance of identifying individuals who emulate the Association’s values and exercise opportunities to contribute or pay it forward. These individuals act as “ambassadors and role models as others try to find their place in making their own contributions.”
“NIRSA is an organization that, at its base, is supportive of the growth and development of others, and a part of that effort is to recognize and celebrate individuals for their contributions,” Tom adds. “We do so in the most public way, so we keep alive and in front of us the values and principles that make up who we are. Nominating a colleague is one more way in which we can nurture, and show as an example, the best of our Association.”
To Deb, submitting a nomination is also an opportunity to showcase gratitude and celebrate generosity. “While we can only select one award winner, every gift and ever donor makes a big difference to the work we do for the Association,” she says. “Let’s celebrate the generous spirit of giving in our NIRSA family.”
Honor an outstanding individual or group who has made a significant difference to the profession and the NIRSA family by nominating them for the NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award. The award will be presented at the 2020 NIRSA Annual Conference and Campus Rec & Wellness Expo.
- For more information, contact a NIRSA Foundation Board member or NIRSA Foundation Coordinator Kameron Carroll.
Kelley Hungerford is currently the Assistant Director of Expo & Corporate Relations at NIRSA.
