NIRSA Region I Conference
Rowan University, NJ • October 28-30, 2026
Matt Graifer
Keynote Speaker
Matt Graifer, better known as The Young Professor, is, at this point, neither particularly young nor a professor—but he still plays one on TV.
His career began in education, where he became a college professor at just 25 years old and spent more than a decade teaching exercise science and later high school social studies. While teaching, he moonlighted as a trivia host throughout Central Florida, eventually adopting the memorable stage name “The Young Professor” and developing the larger-than-life personality and signature flashy suits that have become his trademark.
In 2022, he joined the Savannah Bananas as an in-game host and now serves as the organization’s Cast Director, overseeing the recruitment, coaching, and management of performers across the Banana Ball Championship League. He also writes, produces, and directs live entertainment that has helped redefine the fan experience in sports.
Before all of this he was a member of NIRSA with both Rowan University (undergrad) and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (grad) and he even served as the Region III Illinois State Student Representative! Much of his story and success can be traced back to his experiences within campus recreation.
All Conference Social
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum serves as a vital part of the University’s institutional mission to educate and demonstrate research in critical areas, including plant and animal biodiversity, earth sciences and environmental responsibility, all through the study of paleontology. The museum features full-scale dinosaur sculptures, an interactive fossil scavenger hunt, free-roaming virtual reality and live animal exhibits.
Hotel & Travel
Courtyard by Marriott Glassboro Rowan University
325 Rowan Boulevard Glassboro, New Jersey, USA, 08028-2235
The Courtyard by Marriott Glassboro Rowan University is located directly on Rowan University’s campus, making it a convenient option for conference attendees. The hotel is within walking distance of campus, restaurants, coffee shops, and other amenities along Rowan Boulevard.
Getting to Glassboro
Fly
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is about 25 miles from Rowan University. An Uber or Lyft from the airport to Glassboro typically takes 35–45 minutes and costs around $60–$80, depending on traffic and demand. Rental cars are also available at the airport.
Drive
Glassboro is easily accessible from major highways, including the NJ Turnpike, I-295, Route 55, and Route 322. Driving is likely the easiest option for attendees coming from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, New York, and Washington, D.C.
Train
Glassboro does not currently have passenger train service. If you’re traveling by Amtrak, take the train to Philadelphia 30th Street Station, Philadelphia’s main Amtrak and regional rail station. From there, an Uber or Lyft to Rowan University is about 30–40 minutes and typically costs around $40–$60, depending on traffic and demand. You can also rent a car or continue by NJ Transit bus to Glassboro.
Coming from New England?
Attendees from Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine may want to compare flights to Philadelphia with Amtrak to Philadelphia, depending on your starting point.
A Few Things to Know
Glassboro is a small college town. Rowan University is located in the center of town, so many conference hotels, restaurants, and activities are close to campus.
You don’t necessarily need a rental car. If you stay near campus, you can walk to many places and use Uber/Lyft when needed.
Philadelphia is the closest major city. It’s about 20 miles from Glassboro, so it’s an easy option if you want to arrive early, stay an extra night, or explore the city before or after the conference.
Allow extra time for traffic. The Philadelphia/South Jersey area can have heavier traffic during morning and evening commute times. If you’re flying out after the conference, give yourself plenty of time to get back to PHL.
New Jersey uses toll roads. If you’re driving, you may encounter tolls on the NJ Turnpike and other major roads. Most toll roads accept electronic payment, and rental cars typically have a toll-payment option.
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