“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity…it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie
In the chaos of this past year—COVID, wildfires, hurricanes, political and social unrest—finding something to be grateful for can seem like a daunting task…until we take a moment to look around at those who have helped carry us through. Colleagues, peers, mentors, students, friends and family—we wouldn’t be where we are today without the support, energy, and inspiration of those that surround us.
Help recognize and celebrate those you are most grateful for. Do you know a NIRSA member who has gone above and beyond the call of duty in their volunteer service or professional role? Do you know an engaged and dedicated student deserving of an accolade? Do you know an individual continually striving for a diverse and inclusive community for all?
Show your appreciation by nominating an individual (or group) for a NIRSA award; take a moment to be grateful for all that they have accomplished or the support they have provided, either to you personally or to others you know.
Deadlines are quickly approaching for NIRSA awards. Visit the links below to learn more about each award’s selection criteria, eligibility, and application or nomination requirements—and submit your nominations!
November 16 deadline
- NIRSA Honor Award – The highest honor awarded by our Association
- The Sarah Fain Distinguished Service Award – Celebrating the dedication of a NIRSA Championship Series volunteer
- NIRSA Annual Service Awards – Acknowledging exceptional volunteer service in leadership and development of NIRSA programs, policies, events, special projects, or committees
- Regional Awards of Merit – Recognizing a professional from each NIRSA region who demonstrates remarkable performance or dedication on a state, provincial wide, or regional basis
- Horace Moody Awards – Recognizing professional members who have made significant contributions to student development and success
- Outstanding Facilities Awards – Recognizing excellence in newly-constructed, renovated, or expanded recreation facilities
- William N. Wasson Student Leadership and Academic Awards – Recognizing exceptional students actively involved with the department of recreational sports on university and college campuses
- USTA/NIRSA Tennis Ace Awards – Recognizing the outstanding accomplishments in tennis participation and promotion of the USTA Tennis On Campus Program
- NIRSA Research and Assessment Award – Recognizing a NIRSA member who has made extraordinary contributions toward advancing research and assessment initiatives on their campus and/or for NIRSA
- NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award – Recognizing an individual or group that has demonstrated phenomenal dedication to the NIRSA Foundation and its mission
November 30 deadline
- Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award – Recognizing those individuals who best exemplify the hard work and dedication that go into the continuing creation of a diverse and inclusive community
January 7 deadline
Creative Excellence Awards – Recognizing outstanding marketing and advertising materials published by the NIRSA membership.
Applications will open on Monday, November 16 and be due Thursday, January 7. New category for this year: COVID Communication Campaign.
This is a strong, resilient community full of amazing humans (and don’t forget you are one of them). If you’ve considered nominating a deserving NIRSA member for a NIRSA award, now is the time. Practice a little gratitude and submit a nomination today!
- For more information, please contact NIRSA Leadership Programs Coordinator Chelsea Hansson.
Chelsea Hansson is the Leadership Programs Coordinator at NIRSA.
