Programming for Directors
Directors are invited to participate in a set of intentionally designed, director-only conference experiences focused on navigating change, sharing practical leadership insight, and strengthening the visibility and value of campus recreation within today’s higher education environment.
The 2026 Director’s Track brings together campus recreation directors for candid, facilitated peer conversations grounded in real decisions, trade-offs, and examples from the field. Sessions balance outside perspective with structured discussion to ensure directors leave with ideas, language, and approaches they can adapt on their own campuses.
The Director’s Track includes director-only learning sessions, the AVP Panel, opportunities to connect with employers and emerging professionals, and dedicated networking moments designed to strengthen collaboration across institutions.
Why Participate in the Director’s Track?
Navigate a Changing Higher Education Landscape
The Director’s Track offers a focused space for directors to engage with peers on how campus recreation is responding to shifting institutional priorities, financial pressures, workforce challenges, and expectations around student success.
Learn What’s Working—from Colleagues
Through facilitated small-group discussions, directors will share concrete examples of decisions that worked, approaches that didn’t, and lessons learned from navigating change within complex campus environments.
Strengthen How You Articulate Value
Sessions emphasize how directors are positioning their programs, priorities, and impact in ways that resonate with senior leadership and align with broader institutional goals.
Build Connections That Matter
In addition to learning sessions, directors can connect with peers, exhibitors, employers, and emerging professionals through curated networking opportunities throughout the conference.
“The recent NIRSA conference was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders and professionals to share innovative ideas and best practices. Attendees praised the engaging sessions and networking opportunities that fostered collaboration and growth. The event truly highlights the importance of community and continuous learning in the field.”
– Calvin Diggs, Director of Campus Recreation at Colorado State University-Pueblo
2026 Director’s Track – Schedule Overview
Wednesday,
April 8
Director’s Track*
10:00am–12:00pm
Director-only learning and discussion session focused on how directors are navigating changing higher education realities and positioning campus recreation for impact.
The session will include a brief national perspective from the American Council on Education (ACE), reflecting a presidential lens on higher education, followed by facilitated table conversations where directors share concrete examples of how they are adapting, making decisions, and articulating value within their institutional contexts.
Career Fair
2:15pm–4:00pm
Directors interested in hosting an employer table to recruit talent are encouraged to participate.
Thursday, April 9
Decision Makers Social (Expo Hall)*
9:00am–10:00am
An informal networking opportunity for directors, associate directors, and senior-level leaders to connect with peers and exhibitors.
Take a Student to Lunch
12:00pm–1:00pm
A long-standing tradition pairing students with professionals for casual networking and conversation. Lunch will be provided in the expo hall.
Inside the Leadership Lens: A Senior Student Affairs Conversation
2:15pm–3:45pm
Open to all attendees, this senior-level conversation offers insight into how student affairs leaders approach leadership and decision-making in a complex higher education landscape and is designed with directors in mind.
Friday,
April 10
NIRSA Awards Reception
8:30am–9:30am
Celebrate excellence in campus recreation and connect with colleagues from across the Association.
Director’s Track*
9:40am–10:35am
Director-only session featuring national perspective and research from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) on career readiness and student success. Following this brief presentation, directors will engage in facilitated discussions centered on practical application, problem-solving, and tested approaches related to leadership, workforce, resources, and institutional influence.
*Directors-only session; preregistration required (free)
“I appreciate how NIRSA has shifted the conference program to meet the changing needs of our profession and higher education. I enjoy seeing my NIRSA family, while cultivating new relationships and networks.”
– Kevin George, Director of Campus Recreation at Rowan University
Stay Tuned for More
Additional program details—including session descriptions, speakers, and senior-level content—will be added as they are finalized. Directors can expect a mix of strategic conversations, peer learning, and practical takeaways designed to support leadership in today’s fast-changing campus recreation landscape.
