This award recognizes the work that is happening in our recreation centers that are instrumental in student success, build community and share the important message of health and wellbeing.
Awards recognize contributions of members who are transforming the field of collegiate recreation through outstanding programming and innovative service that improves student success, builds community, and shares the important message of health and wellbeing in alignment with NIRSA’s priorities.
The application period has ended.
Eligibility
To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- The applicant must be a current NIRSA Institutional, Professional, or Student member
- Programming must have occurred or been enhanced between November 1, 2022 and October 31, 2024
- May not have received a Campus Rec Innovative Programming Award in the same category for the past three years
Selection Criteria
Open Division
Any Campus Rec Programming area will be accepted for this category (i.e. Intramurals, Sport Clubs, Member Services, esports, etc.).
Up to eight recipients will be awarded annually.
Special Division
There will be two category options this year:
- Health & Wellbeing
- Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Each year, NIRSA will choose categories in this division that reflect the priorities of the Association.
The committee will select one winner and one runner-up for each category.
Award recipients will be formally recognized via NIRSA media channels and receive a plaque, and NIRSA may select recipients to feature in additional content showcasing thought leadership.
The Innovative Programming Committee evaluates each submission for the following details:
Summary Overview
Overview of the element of your program you are submitting for consideration. Your summary should provide the reviewers with sufficient information to understand the programming before they review the specific elements of the program’s goals/objectives, strategy/tactics, and success metrics/results achieved.
Goals and Objectives
Goals and objectives should be clearly stated and expressed in specific and measurable terms/outcomes. Consider describing how the entry factored into your organization’s mission.
Strategy/Tactics
Outline the plan, strategy, or tactics you used to reach the goals and objectives set.
Success Metrics/Results Achieved
For the measurement of your goals and objectives, please indicate your metrics for success. Examples could include: the number of participants in the program per year, comments and data on your communication about your programs from your member satisfaction surveys, etc.
Images
Share high-resolution images of participation in your programming to help committee members get an inside look at the experience.
Entry Fee & Payment Information
Entry fee of $99*
- You can pay for your entries online using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover credit cards. A link for payment can be found at the bottom of the application. Applications are not considered complete until payment is received.
- If you wish to pay with a credit card via telephone or by check, please contact our Billing Coordinator at 541-766-8211 after submitting your application.
*Fees are subject to change
Previous Recipients
Check out the recipients of the 2024 Campus Rec Innovative Programming Awards.
Special Division Recipients
First Place
Amplify Campaign
UNC Charlotte
Runner Up
Sip & Paint
James Madison University
Open Division Recipients
Using Streaming and Digital Media to Propel Growth in Club Sports
Robert Morris University
Rec Recess
Campus and Community Recreation
University of Alberta
Women’s Only Workouts & Empower Hour
Arizona State University
For More Info
Contact NIRSA’s Member Engagement Manager, Natasha Fischer.