Programming for Mid-Level Professionals
The 2026 NIRSA + IDEA® World Conference & Expo offers dedicated opportunities for mid-level professionals to deepen their leadership skills, strengthen cross-functional expertise, and connect with peers navigating similar responsibilities.
Whether you’re leading teams, managing programs or facilities, or preparing for your next leadership step, the conference provides space to step back, learn from others in the field, and gain practical strategies you can apply on campus right away.
Ready to join us in National Harbor? Use our Convince Your Boss resources to show how attending NIRSA + IDEA® World will support your leadership development and contribute to your department’s goals.
Get Insights to Help You Transform Your Campus’ Programs
Go beyond structured educational sessions
In addition to traditional learning sessions, you’ll also find candid roundtable conversations that offer dedicated forums for specialty areas and for peer groups; these open conversations provide a chance to advance ongoing conversations, share ideas, and solve problems.
Tour outstanding facilities
Optional preconference facility tours provide inspiration and insights for professionals whose schools are considering or undertaking construction or renovation projects.
Enjoy networking in relaxed settings
The learning and skill development that is the focal point of sessions and workshops will be nicely balanced by the open and fun atmosphere found during the iconic networking socials that have become synonymous with past NIRSA Conferences and IDEA® World events.
“Attending a NIRSA Conference provides educational enrichment, peer benchmarking, and career-related social connection that cannot be replicated. Attending always fills my cup in a way no other career endeavor can.”
– Gregory Reinhardt, Associate Director for Programs & Assessment at the University of Washington
Mid-Level Content Highlights
Explore the session schedule to learn more about this content and more!
Tuesday, April 7
12:30pm-2:30pm
From Data to Decisions: Building Data Literacy in Campus Recreation & Wellness
Wednesday, April 8
NIRSA + IDEA® World Career Fair
Wednesday, April 8 – Thursday, April 9
NIRSA + IDEA® World Expo
Wednesday, April 8–Friday, April 10
Building Healthy Teams: Leadership Development for Hazing Prevention and Club Sport Athlete Well-Being
The Co$t of Gratitude: Appreciating Staff on a Budget
Evidence-based Practice for Collegiate Recreation Professionals
Storytelling for a Healthy Campus
Thriving Through Change: Finding Purpose and Building Resilience at Work
Don’t Miss
In addition to mid-level-focused opportunities, attendees are encouraged to take advantage of mainstage sessions, educational programs, and networking events throughout the week—offering valuable perspective, inspiration, and connection beyond your functional area.
“After attending my first NIRSA Conference, I feel inspired and invigorated to head back to my campus. I created so many new connections and friendships that really impacted my journey in campus rec. To share in the joys and challenges alongside fellow attendees was so refreshing! It’s comforting to know I’m not alone in my work, as this is my first year in higher education. I now have people I can connect with and learn more from right at my finger tips.”
– Evee Flores, Assistant Director of Campus, Sports & Rec, Facilities at Northeastern University – Oakland Campus
Stay Tuned for More
Additional details—including recommended sessions, peer-learning opportunities, and any mid-level-focused meetups—will be added as they’re finalized.
