The National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association named University Recreation Director Laurie Braden its president-elect on Monday.
Braden will be one of seven members of NIRSA’s Board of Directors. The organization was founded in 1950 and includes more than 4,000 professional, student and associate members. According to its website, NIRSA is the leading resource for professional and student development, education and research in collegiate recreational sports.
Braden has been a member of NIRSA for more than 22 years, served on multiple committees and presented at the local, regional and national level. As the president-elect, her role will be to strategically position NIRSA for national and global prominence as the leading expert in higher education health, recreation and wellness, according to a news release. She said the appointment is humbling.
“I was excited to be elected by my peers for this leadership position with NIRSA,” Braden said in an email Wednesday. “I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve NIRSA in this capacity and am grateful to many mentors in my career who have modeled the way for me.”
Although many may not be familiar with the organization, University Recreation Assistant Director of Marketing Scott Belanger said the appointment will be extremely helpful.
“It is basically an organization of all of the recreation organizations,” he said. “For her to serve such a prominent role in such a prominent organization can only help the University.”
Belanger said the appointment will be especially helpful with the University Student Recreation Complex looking to expand its facilities.
Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Enrollment Kurt Keppler agrees.
“Laurie is a leader in her field, and LSU University Recreation is positioned to soar with her at the helm,” Keppler said. “She is most deserving of this milestone career accomplishment, and I am certain NIRSA will benefit from her leadership.”
 
____ Contact Joshua Bergeron at [email protected]