Just a few days remain for scholars and researchers to submit a proposal for publication in the upcoming special issue of the NIRSA Recreational Sports Journal (RSJ), focusing on justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (JDEI) in collegiate recreation and practice. Proposals—which should include an abstract and explanation of the study plan (i.e., short literature review, research questions, methodology), along with status of the study’s completion—are due May 31.

The special issue aims to offer campus recreation practitioners and scholars a framework for and successful examples of JDEI research and practice in the collegiate recreation environment. It will be co-edited by Dr. Cara Lucia, Chair and Associate Professor at Elon University, Dr. Eric Knee, Assistant Professor at Adelphi University, and Dr. Augustus Hallmon, Assistant Professor at James Madison University. They are particularly interested in research related to the following themes:

  • Systemic (e.g., policies, practices, services), relational (e.g., cultural humility, power dynamics), and individual (e.g., biases, beliefs, assumptions) challenges facing efforts to create equitable and inclusive environments
  • Effectiveness of JDEI networks, affinity groups, or employee resource groups on creating positive outcomes
  • Exploration and analysis of traditional (female/male) social constructs of gender
  • Neurodiversity and the challenges that those with nonvisible behaviors face in traditional collegiate recreation settings
  • Analyzing challenges linked to intersectionality and how categories such as race, class, gender, sexuality, ability, ethnicity, and age impact the experiences of employees, participants, and members
  • History and culture of collegiate recreation
  • Exhibiting allyship, advocacy, and activism in collegiate recreation settings

The co-editors are also interested in the impact the above themes have on professionals, student employees, and populations served by campus recreation services, programs, and facilities.

If you have questions or would like to submit a proposal for the Fall 2024 Special Issue of the RSJ, email Austin Anderson by May 31.

Selected authors will be notified by August 16, with manuscripts expected to be completed by January 24.

About the Recreational Sports Journal

The Recreational Sports Journal is a scholarly journal that serves to advance the understanding of the role of collegiate recreation within higher education. The RSJ publishes peer-reviewed manuscripts relevant to the holistic impact of collegiate recreation and the critical areas outlined by the NIRSA Research Agenda. The RSJ encourages empirical, theoretical, and applied submissions for publication and is produced by the NIRSA Foundation.

Every NIRSA member receives an annual subscription to the RSJ. All current and back issues as well as a printed issue are available through your annual membership.

  • For more information, contact Chair and Associate Professor at Elon University, Cara Lucia.