As NIRSA celebrates 75 years of shaping collegiate recreation, we recognize another significant milestone—250 years of service from the United States Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. Established in 1775, these service branches have stood ready to serve and protect, embodying resilience, leadership, and community—values that also define NIRSA members. Our histories have mutually beneficial connections, with recreation playing a vital role in fostering both military readiness and student wellbeing. NIRSA’s commitment to collaboration with military recreation professionals goes back decades. The Association has hosted NIRSA Conferences on military installations, providing a space for knowledge-sharing and professional development. These events have helped bridge the gap between collegiate and military recreation, fostering best practices that benefit both sectors:
- 1959 – United States Military Academy, West Point, New York
- 1967 – United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland
- 1970 – United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Morale, welfare, and recreation
NIRSA membership extends beyond the collegiate setting, as several military installations have joined NIRSA since 1999. These military recreation professionals worldwide contribute to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. These programs serve military personnel and their families, providing fitness, sports, and wellness initiatives that mirror the work done on college campuses. Just as collegiate recreation centers promote student engagement, belonging, and holistic wellbeing, MWR programs support service members' physical and mental health, strengthening their readiness and resilience. The connection between military and collegiate recreation continues to grow. At the 2024 and 2025 NIRSA Conferences, several military-affiliated attendees joined us, and we hope to extend our reach in 2026 when we return to National Harbor, Maryland where tens of thousands of active-duty service members are serving at the many nearby military installations. This growing engagement strengthens our community, emphasizing shared values of leadership, service, and lifelong wellness.
As we honor these milestones this coming Veterans Day, we celebrate the enduring partnership between NIRSA and military recreation professionals. Together, we remain committed to fostering resilience, belonging, and well-being—on campuses and beyond.
Tell us about some of those military connections in NIRSA history
The History and Legacy Committee is hoping to amplify diverse perspectives as they work to honor the individuals and milestones that have made a positive impact on your NIRSA experiences. Take a few minutes this week to list up to 10 individuals, from your perspective, who have had the most significant impact on NIRSA, on the profession of campus recreation, and on your NIRSA experience. Don’t worry about listing them in any particular order.
- If you are interested in highlighting your campus or a NIRSA member’s achievements on your campus, pitch us your ideas.
