Schools are cautiously optimistic about the future of campus rec

At the turn of the year, NIRSA invited senior leaders from 675 institutions across North America to participate in a survey to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on campus rec operations, collectively. Two hundred and forty schools participated in the survey: the aggregated data and an introduction from Pam Watts is now available to NIRSA members.

Why these findings matter

“Through the years, NIRSA members have grown the association and the field of collegiate recreation through generous sharing of knowledge, resources, ideas, and innovations,” says NIRSA Executive Director Pam Watts. Responses to the survey reflect a profession that is valued by campus communities and staffed with cross-campus collaborators who are flexible and responsive. “It is no surprise that the results demonstrate success amid new and often severe constraints,” Pam adds.

“With nearly a year of forced experimentation under our belts and a shift in how society is willing or expects to engage, campus recreation has an opportunity to expand its impact on student success,” Pam continues. “Through NIRSA’s broad network of professionals we can co-create new solutions, accelerate positive change, and share new ideas widely.”

Thanks to participating schools

Thank you to the 240 NIRSA institutions who responded to the survey so that others can learn, adapt, and advocate on their own campuses. We look forward to continuing to deliver meaningful resources to NIRSA members and sourcing data that supports the value of campus recreation.

The list of participating schools can be found in Pam’s introduction and the full survey results.