Jack Parry
Brock University

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.

I believe that collegiate recreation plays a strong role in giving students an outlet to burn off stress and assists in students maintaining both positive mental and physical health. Unlike varsity sports teams, students of all abilities and backgrounds are able to participate in the sport that interests them most. Collegiate recreation is inclusive and also allows students to form friendships that last beyond their university years. One of the things I have valued the most is watching other students discover and participate in new sports and find a passion for something they never thought of previously. Recreational sports have influenced me by allowing me a place to build my collaborative and teamwork skills. I have met many new people and have built my network of friends in a far greater way than I would have been able to without my participation in the various recreational leagues at Brock University. In my involvement as a supervisor for intramurals, I have gained valuable skills in organization and planning that will assist me not only with my studies but also in my future career in sports management.

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?

I believe that one major issue facing students today is discrimination and racism in sports, both recreational and varsity. I believe it is important to continue the work being done by NIRSA ensuring that they become an anti-racist organization that promotes a zero-tolerance policy when acts of racism are identified and continue to develop as an organization that works towards removing barriers that may prevent students from participating. It is important to recognize that students, faculty and NIRSA members may be at different stages of understanding and awareness around the impact of oppression, discrimination, and racism. It is vital to also understand that the learning may take time, but it is incredibly important to provide those learning opportunities to raise the awareness and others throughout the collegiate recreation system. When reviewing the NIRSA Strategic Plan I believe it is important to continue to focus on the strategic priorities identified, striving “for inclusive excellence through an anti-racist and equity lens”. As a solution, I would look to adjust, remove and/or develop new practices (possibly policies) and decision-making processes to align with anti-racist practices and address and look to remove discriminatory barriers, and experiences that prevent or stop students from participating. Ensuring these policies/practices are written in clear student-friendly language so that everyone fully understands the policies of NIRSA and that nothing is left to interpretation.

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.

So far I have been in the position of Canadian Student Leader for 9 months. I have helped in planning of the canceled NIRSA Canada conference, as well as presentations for that conference and have currently been helping within conference planning for the NIRSA conference in Phoenix. Outside of NIRSA I have also gained a lot of leadership experience. I am currently an Intramural Supervisor at Brock University as well as a Manager at McDonalds. As a manager I often advocated for my employees, ensuring that they had the support they needed to complete their shift as well as move forward to other positions should they wish. As a Supervisor at Brock University it is important to have strong communication skills to build a successful thriving recreation program. I encouraged both participants and supervisors to share their ideas and thoughts with me as I was always looking to provide the best experience possible. I feel that these skills I have gained will assist me in serving the students of the Association as I strongly believe that a successful organization needs to listen to and be open to many voices in order to be successful and meet the needs of those they serve.

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?

Currently I am deeply immersed in college recreation and student leadership, I believe my unique blend of experiences and skills positions me well to contribute effectively to the Student Leadership Team. My current role as the Canadian Student Leader for NIRSA and my position as an Intramural Supervisor at Brock University have honed my abilities in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are crucial for student development and member recruitment and retention. Leading as a manager at McDonald’s has imbued me with practical leadership skills that are directly applicable to student environments. It has taught me how to motivate a team, manage diverse personalities, and ensure operational efficiency. These skills are vital in creating a vibrant, inclusive, and productive student leadership team. My tenure as a Canadian Student Leader for NIRSA and my experience at Brock Recreation have provided me with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of students in the recreational domain. I’ve learned to communicate effectively with a diverse student body, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. This experience is invaluable in understanding how to attract and retain student members, as it requires an acute awareness of their interests and concerns. My problem-solving abilities, honed through managing real-time challenges in both my professional and leadership roles, equip me to address the complex issues that the Student Leadership Team might face. Moreover, my people skills enable me to build and maintain strong relationships, which are essential for teamwork and collaboration.

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

My leadership style is predominantly characterized by inclusivity, adaptability, and a strong focus on team development. This approach has been shaped by my experiences as a manager at McDonald’s, the Canadian Student Leader for NIRSA, and as an Intramural Supervisor at Brock University. Inclusivity is also something I focus on. I strive to create an environment where every team member feels valued and heard. This approach not only fosters a sense of belonging but also encourages diverse perspectives, leading to more innovative solutions and a more cohesive team. In the context of the Student Leadership Team, this would ensure that all voices are considered in decision-making processes, enhancing our ability to address the varied needs of the student body. Adaptability is another key aspect of my leadership style. In fast-paced environments like McDonald’s and university recreation, being able to quickly adjust to new challenges and changing circumstances is crucial. This skill will be particularly beneficial for the Student Leadership Team as we navigate the dynamic landscape of student needs and organizational goals.

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.).

I always keep a planner on my phone, as well as a huge calendar on my bedroom wall. It helps me visualize what is coming up, and allows me to delegate time towards each item on the calendar/planner. I always focus on school first, then whatever task is more important after that.