Hayley Jayde
University of Manitoba

Please provide a statement of your personal views on the role and contributions of collegiate recreation in higher education. In your response, describe how collegiate recreation has influenced your development.

Collegiate recreation has been instrumental in shaping my academic and personal growth. From both a student and professional perspective, I’ve seen firsthand how recreation enhances the higher education experience by promoting mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Through roles such as a Recreation Services Student Assistant and Intramural Supervisor at the University of Manitoba, I’ve had the opportunity to actively contribute to and witness the impact of recreation on campus life.

In these positions, I organized events, managed media, liaised with staff, and provided direct services to students, helping to build a sense of community. This involvement helped me develop crucial skills in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, and taught me how recreation can foster social connections and promote balance in the academic journey.

Within the context of the NIRSA Strategic Plan, what area/item would you say is a major issue students face today? How would you address this issue during your term?

During my term as a NIRSA Central Student Representative, I aim to address the significant mental health challenges faced by students today, driven by pressures related to academic performance, social dynamics, and post-graduation uncertainties. To tackle this issue, I would focus on integrating wellness and mental health initiatives into collegiate recreation programs. Specifically, I would advocate for the creation of peer support networks through recreation, facilitating community-building where students can connect and support each other in a relaxed environment. Additionally, I plan to raise awareness of the crucial role that recreation plays in mental health by organizing campaigns, workshops, and presentations that highlight the direct correlation between physical activity and improved well-being. By promoting these initiatives, I believe we can cultivate a campus environment that not only encourages physical fitness but also fosters emotional resilience.

Describe your contributions to NIRSA (i.e. presentations, volunteering, previous leadership roles, etc.) and identify how your involvement and experiences qualify you to advocate for and serve the students of the Association.

As a Central Student Representative for NIRSA since June 2023, I have been actively involved in promoting the mission of the organization, which is to advocate for and enhance collegiate recreation. My contributions include volunteering at various events and engaging with student leaders and campus recreation professionals to gather feedback on how NIRSA can better serve students across different institutions.

Through my role, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with regional representatives, assist in organizing workshops, and communicate student needs and perspectives to NIRSA leadership. This involvement has given me a deeper understanding of how recreation professionals can impact student development and well-being on a broad scale. My experience also includes serving as a liaison between students and professionals, ensuring that student voices are heard and incorporated into decisions made by the association.

Additionally, my leadership experiences at the University of Manitoba—from planning campus-wide events to supervising intramural sports—have equipped me with the skills necessary to effectively advocate for students. My hands-on work in collegiate recreation has helped me understand the evolving needs of today’s student population, including the importance of creating inclusive and accessible programs. This background qualifies me to serve the students of NIRSA by pushing for innovative, student-centered initiatives that reflect both recreational trends and the diverse needs of college communities.

The Student Leadership Team focuses on student development and Student Member recruitment and retention. What skills, talents, and perspectives would you bring to the Student Leadership Team that would contribute to this focus?

I bring a unique blend of leadership, marketing, and inclusivity skills to the NIRSA Student Leadership Team, honed through my experience as a Recreation Services Student Assistant and Intramural Supervisor at the University of Manitoba. My event planning background and ability to engage diverse student populations ensure I can contribute to both recruitment and retention efforts by creating inclusive and accessible programs that resonate with all students. Additionally, my marketing experience will help promote NIRSA’s offerings to new members, while my passion for mentorship will support peer-to-peer development, fostering a sense of community and belonging among current members.

Describe your leadership style. How will it benefit you and the rest of the Student Leadership Team?

My leadership style is collaborative and adaptable, grounded in open communication and a focus on empowering others. I believe in fostering a team environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and strengths. By valuing diverse perspectives, I encourage creative problem-solving and ensure that decisions are made with input from all members. I also lead by example, staying organized, proactive, and approachable, which helps maintain a positive team dynamic and clear direction. This leadership style benefits the Student Leadership Team by promoting cohesion and a shared sense of responsibility. My adaptability allows me to adjust to different situations and support my teammates effectively, while my collaborative approach ensures that all voices are heard, leading to innovative solutions and stronger team outcomes. This will help us work together efficiently, especially when engaging with NIRSA members and developing student-focused initiatives.

As a member of the Student Leadership Team, you have the opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the field of collegiate recreation. However, we acknowledge and respect that you are a student first. Explain your strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between your various roles (student, volunteer, athlete, employee, etc.).

To maintain a healthy balance between my roles as a student, volunteer, athlete, and employee, I rely on effective time management and clear prioritization. I create structured schedules that allocate specific time blocks for each commitment, ensuring I meet academic deadlines while staying engaged in extracurricular activities. I also set boundaries to protect my personal time, focusing on rest and self-care to prevent burnout. When needed, I delegate responsibilities and communicate openly with my peers and supervisors to stay adaptable. This approach allows me to stay organized, perform effectively in all my roles, and maintain my well-being while contributing fully to the Student Leadership Team.