Networking

NIRSA 2024 Phoenix

Lifelong Connections Begin Here

The NIRSA Annual Conference is not only the place to learn best practices and emerging trends in the field, it’s also the #1 place to build your campus rec network! In addition to meeting new colleagues through discussions during educational sessions, there are lots of events that will help you expand your professional network.

NIRSA members are known for their idea sharing and support of one another. Many people state that their first NIRSA conference really launched their network of professional connections, which have subsequently lasted their whole careers. These connections provide a go-to source for garnering feedback on new programming ideas, knowledge of career opportunities, much needed advice, and support when faced with a difficult situation.

Your conference registration is your access pass for expanding your campus rec circle! There are numerous opportunities at NIRSA 2024:

New Attendee Sessions
Wednesday, April 17 at 3:00pm

Kick off your first NIRSA Annual Conference by attending a new attendee info and networking session. This is a great place to connect with other fellow first-time NIRSA conference attendees. There’s a session for first-time student attendees and one for first-time professional attendees. You may have attended conferences in the past, but we encourage you to come to this session to learn about how to navigate a NIRSA Annual Conference and thrive!

Campus Rec & Wellness Expo

Not only is the Campus Rec & Wellness Expo the place to see the latest and greatest in products and services for campus rec facilities, it’s also your opportunity to build your list of industry partners. Exhibitors are eager to serve your campus community now and into the future. The expo also features many activities for you to build relationships with your peers while moving, learning, noshing, and having fun!

NZone

NIRSA has its own Networking Zone (aka NZone), a space for attendees to meet new friends and catch up with colleagues. Throughout the conference the NZone will be a place to hang out and provide a relaxed atmosphere to grow your peer community. Affinity groups will be hosting networking sessions throughout the conference. Check the conference app and signs outside Room 221 A-C for timing of specific activities.

Regional Meetups

Plan to attend your regional meetup! This is a great way to learn about what’s happening in your region and network with colleagues from schools nearby. Check the conference app for your region’s meeting location.

Take a Student to Lunch

Students and professionals, we’re bringing back this Annual Conference favorite! The Student Leadership Team will help facilitate Take a Student to Lunch on Thursday, April 18 from 11:30am-1:00pm. Pairings will occur in the North Ballroom immediately following the Student Leadership Team-led session. Professionals, this is a great opportunity for you to interact with the students and learn from them. Students, this is a great opportunity to interact with the professionals and learn more about the amazing field of campus recreation!

NIRSA Socials

All NIRSA socials are free for Annual Conference attendees. These events provide a space to unwind, catch up with friends, and meet colleagues—all while having some fun during your time at NIRSA 2023! Take advantage of one—or many—to make the most of your NIRSA Annual Conference experience!

Please note that all cash bars will be a cashless experience. Accepted forms of payment are Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and Apple Pay; cash will not be accepted.

The Founders People of Color Social — Friday, March 24, 6:00pm-7:30pm

Take this opportunity to celebrate the meaningful accomplishments of NIRSA members with respect to the Emerging Recreational Sports Leaders Conference, the HBCU Summit, the Founders Scholarship, and the Juliette Moore Distinguished Leadership Award.

Refreshments and light appetizers will be served. All NIRSA 2023 attendees and exhibitors are welcome to attend.

All Conference Social — Friday, March 24, 8:00pm–11:00pm, Heinz History Center

Join your NIRSA friends for the All-Conference Social at the Heinz History Center. NIRSA attendees will be welcomed to explore the many interactive exhibitions and museums—including the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum—with more than 70 interactive activities that celebrate the tradition of sports in the Pittsburgh region. Be sure to have your cameras ready to capture the numerous artifacts throughout the exhibitions like the iconic TV set from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tasty hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, and cash bars will be accessible throughout the venue. Please refer to the note on all cash bars being cashless; only credit cards will be accepted for payment.

LGBTQ & Allies Social — Saturday, March 25, 5:30pm–7:00pm

An annual favorite, the LGBTQ & Allies Social fosters and encourages the involvement of LGBTQ individuals and allies in the Association. We’ll also recognize the recipients of the Fredrick R. Braden Scholarships for Social Justice. Join us as we support inclusion and diversity in NIRSA.

Refreshments and light appetizers will be served.