Get to Know Us
NIRSA members are the most dedicated individuals and institutions working in campus rec.
We support the learning and growth of college students by fostering connection and lifelong habits of wellbeing.
NIRSA Network
At the top of our game! Schools join NIRSA to ensure their staff can access the best learning content, industry trends, and professional networks available. Individuals join this historic organization to gain industry insights and make connections that can be invaluable.
A bit more about NIRSA members
Individual Leaders
From undergraduate students working part-time in their campus rec center while pursuing their degrees all the way up to university vice presidents, NIRSA members span a broad spectrum. The majority of professional members include department directors (16%), middle managers (33%), and program area specialists (40%), alongside hundreds of undergrad and graduate students working in campus rec. In total, NIRSA serves more than 3,100 individual members, comprised of approximately 85% professionals and 15% students.
Leading Colleges and Universities
Hundreds of colleges and universities invest each year in institutional membership with NIRSA to provide their staff access to countless learning opportunities, connect them to leading professional networks, and keep them informed of emerging trends. NIRSA’s network of institutional members spans more than 700 campuses across North America, representing institutions of all sizes in every U.S. state, across Canada, and beyond.
Businesses in the Recreation Industry
Leading companies in the recreation industry and companies looking to connect with college and university students join NIRSA to connect with leaders in the field and build long-term relationships with campuses across North America. This network includes more than 120 leading companies supporting and collaborating with the NIRSA community.
NIRSA Leadership
It’s a team game! Supported by NIRSA staff, volunteer leaders generously donate their time and expertise to directing NIRSA’s operations and services. Volunteers and staff work within a strategic framework, are guided by our strategic values, and commit to NIRSA’s shared expectations for belonging.
NIRSA Partners
We play well with others! The NIRSA Foundation is the Association’s philanthropic arm, committed to supporting the future of campus recreation. The NIRSA Services Corporation is the entrepreneurial and economic development arm of NIRSA, and it works in concert with the NIRSA Sports Network to deliver top-tier tournaments across five sports.
Our Associate Members, sponsors, and partners help campus rec decision makers find the best options for their unique campus needs. NIRSA also frequently partners with organizations connected to higher education to help advance our mission.
Strategic Values
NIRSA articulated six strategic values for the profession: Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion; Global Perspective; Health & Wellbeing; Leadership; Service; and Sustainable Communities.
Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion
The higher education environment is being changed by the shifting dynamics of its students and its workforce.
Global Perspective
Higher education and collegiate recreation have been impacted by a variety of global influences.
Health & Wellbeing
The severe impact of rising health care costs has created a new emphasis on prevention and holistic employee wellness.
Leadership
An ever changing world and higher education landscape have made leadership skills more critical than ever.
Service
NIRSA embodies the value of service through a variety of volunteer and civic opportunities.
Sustainable Communities
Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.