Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Campus Recreation is hosting the 2019 Illinois Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (IIRSA) State Workshop Wed.-Thu., Oct. 23-24 at the Student Fitness Center. Approximately 100 professionals representing 20 different colleges, universities and community colleges from Illinois, Missouri and Kansas are expected to attend.
John Charles, director of government and public affairs for the SIU System, will speak at the opening general session to share insights regarding current discussions among state legislators that could have an impact on higher education.
“This workshop provides an opportunity to network with colleges from across the state,” said Amanda Couch, SIUE fitness operations and student development coordinator. “We can learn from one another on what’s working, what’s not and gain insights from each other. It provides growth opportunities as students and professionals offer presentations to their peers.”
A number of topics from changing trends in higher education to group fitness to intramurals and the future of Esports will be addressed. A sample of the sessions includes:
- The College Arms Race: Changing Higher Education in the U.S.
- Developing Students through Risk Management Training
- Generation Z and Mental Health
- Building Up Your Student Employees
In Couch’s experience, she has appreciated hearing from other professionals specifically related to her areas of responsibility. “Campus Recreation is a great machine, but we all have quite different roles,” she said. “Hearing from others that share my role helps me to build within my area. It also opens up conversation and communication with other current professionals, who we may not otherwise have the opportunity to meet.”
Keith Becherer, director of campus recreation, sees the local economic impact of hosting the conference and the resulting prestige for SIUE Campus Recreation as valuable on a variety of levels. “The opportunities to present, discuss topics with colleagues, engage with vendors at the equipment showcase, and gather the latest industry information from presenters is critical to student and staff professional development,” he added.
The purpose of the IIRSA is to foster and enhance the quality of recreational sports programs, facilities and services in various settings throughout Illinois. This may be accomplished through professional meetings, publications, and/or other methods for the dissemination of ideas. All policies and activities shall be consistent with the philosophy of NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation.