Ryan Kirchner
University of Utah

What is your NIRSA “Why”? (What does NIRSA mean to you?)

NIRSA serves as a unifying force for professionals and students committed to fostering a healthy and active campus community. My “NIRSA Why” is rooted in the convergence of community, network, development, and wellbeing.

First and foremost, NIRSA is about fostering a sense of community. In an era when technology can isolate us, campus recreation provides a physical and social hub for students and staff. It creates a space where people from diverse backgrounds can come together, fostering a strong sense of belonging. This communal experience is central to my “NIRSA Why” because it forms the foundation for personal and collective growth.

The networking aspect of NIRSA is equally crucial. This organization connects individuals who share a passion for campus recreation and wellbeing. It offers a platform to exchange ideas, collaborate, and learn from one another. Networking through NIRSA provides valuable insights into best practices, emerging trends, and innovative approaches. This network is not just about professional development but also personal growth through interactions with like-minded individuals.

Development, both professional and personal, is a cornerstone of my “NIRSA Why.” As a student, I have been fortunate to engage in NIRSA activities, attend conferences, and participate in workshops. These experiences have enabled me to learn new skills, improve leadership abilities, and gain a broader perspective on the field of campus recreation. Beyond the professional realm, NIRSA has empowered me to develop resilience, adaptability, and the ability to thrive under pressure, which are vital life skills.

Finally, wellbeing is at the core of NIRSA’s mission. The organization promotes holistic wellness, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional health. This emphasis on wellbeing resonates with me, as I believe that a healthy and balanced life is essential for personal fulfillment and success. NIRSA’s programs and initiatives encourage a lifestyle that prioritizes wellbeing, setting the stage for a happier and more productive community.

In conclusion, my “NIRSA Why” is community, network, development, and wellbeing. I am drawn to NIRSA because it offers the opportunity to create and nurture a sense of community, connect with a diverse network, continuously develop personally and professionally, and champion the cause of wellbeing. Through NIRSA, I hope to contribute to the creation of healthier and more vibrant campus communities, enriching the lives of individuals and the institutions they serve.

What are the current trends in collegiate recreation and higher education that you see impacting our work and the Association? How would you collaborate with the members in your region and the Member Network team to solve these issues?

Collegiate recreation plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall student experience, fostering personal growth, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. I would focus on three main areas collaborating with the Member Network recruitment and retention of members, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and providing strategic professional development opportunities. This collaboration should be based on open communication, shared goals, and a commitment to the betterment of collegiate recreation and the Association

Embracing new members and retaining existing ones is essential for the growth and sustainability of our Association. Collaborating with the Member Network team, we can strategize targeted recruitment efforts, reaching out to campuses where our presence may be limited. Additionally, we must create value for our members, offering unique benefits, resources, and networking opportunities to encourage continued engagement. The Member Network and regional representatives should utilize comprehensive needs assessments across campuses to identify specific challenges and opportunities unique to each institution. This data-driven approach will enable us to develop tailored solutions and initiatives that cater to the needs of diverse campuses. Collegiate recreation fosters a sense of community among students, staff, and faculty. Through collaborative efforts, we can strengthen this community, encouraging a supportive environment where individuals can connect, learn from one another, and leave a positive impact on those whom we serve.

As a responsible and forward-thinking Association, we must actively work to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within our organization and collegiate recreation spaces. By collaborating with the Member Network team, we can design inclusive programs and initiatives that cater to diverse populations, ensuring that all students have equal access to and feel welcome in recreational activities.

Continuous professional development is vital for the growth of individuals within the collegiate recreation. As the Regional Representative I would collaborate with the Member Network to organize workshops, conferences, and webinars that empower our members with industry trends, leadership skills, and networking opportunities, ultimately elevating the quality of services offered on campuses. These events can focus on sharing success stories, discussing challenges, and offering practical solutions.

The future of collegiate recreation and our Association is ripe with opportunities to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and professionals within the field. By focusing on expanding engagement, promoting healthy lifestyles, building community, and collaborating on issues like recruitment and retention, equity, diversity, and inclusion, and professional development, we can unlock the full potential of collegiate recreation.

How has your experience in your state, region, and/or NIRSA prepared you to serve on the Member Network? What unique skills or talents would you bring to the Member Network?

Throughout my involvement with NIRSA, I have had the privilege of serving in various leadership roles and contributing to the organization’s growth and development. From my early on as a Region VI Conference Co-Chair to my recent responsibilities as a Regional Representative, I have been passionate about creating meaningful experiences for NIRSA members and fostering professional development within Association.

Being the Conference Chair for NIRSA Region VI allowed me to shape the event’s vision and content, ensuring it catered to the diverse needs of attendees. In this role, I demonstrated my ability to oversee and manage various logistical aspects of Region VI events, ensuring their success and positive impact on attendees. I focused on making the conference experience seamless and enjoyable for attendees, addressing their comfort and logistical needs.

As the Utah State Director, I represented the interests of NIRSA members in my state and acted as a liaison between the state and regional leadership. I advocated for the development of relevant programming and resources to meet the unique needs of Utah’s professionals

My journey with NIRSA has been marked by a commitment to service, leadership, and collaboration. From serving on various committees/leadership positions to chairing events and hosting regional conferences, my contributions have allowed me to positively impact NIRSA members. My experiences align with the position criteria, demonstrating my ability to effectively communicate, lead teams, and contribute meaningfully to the growth and success of the region. I am eager to continue my involvement with the Association and contribute to its mission of fostering the development of recreational sports professionals and enhancing the experiences of its members on both regional and national levels.