Programming for Directors
Directors are invited to participate in a dedicated set of conference experiences designed to support senior-level leadership in campus recreation. This year’s Director’s Track brings together decision-makers from across the field for candid conversations, peer learning, and strategic insights to help navigate today’s evolving challenges.
The 2026 track will include director-only sessions, the AVP Panel, opportunities to connect with employers and emerging professionals, and exclusive networking moments built to strengthen collaboration across institutions. Programming continues to evolve, and more details—including topic focus and any senior-level sessions during the general education blocks—will be added in the coming weeks.
Strengthen Your Team, Elevate Operations, and Advance the Field
Put your finger on the pulse of the profession
A dedicated Directors Track at the conference provides a rare and valuable opportunity for directors to engage with peers, share innovative strategies, and build actionable insights into the evolving conditions impacting campus recreation.
Recruit top talent to your team
Connect with talented candidates, showcase your organization’s employment opportunities, and discover your next superstar teammate at the Career Fair!
Outfit your rec center with the leading solutions
Discover innovative solutions for your facilities and programs at the awe-inspiring 2026 NIRSA + IDEA World Expo—more than 150 companies will be on-hand to help you outfit, equip, and prepare your facilities and your staff!
“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
(Topic and format to be announced)
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 beloved tradition in which each student is paired with a professional for casual networking and conversation.
Lunch will be provided in the expo hall.
AVP Panel
2:15pm–3:45pm
Open to all attendees, this panel is designed with directors in mind and highlights leadership perspectives from across campus recreation and student affairs.
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 Roundtable*
9:40am–10:35am
Director-only roundtable conversations focused on shared challenges, practical solutions, and emerging issues facing campus recreation leadership.
*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.
