Campus Recreation - FY26 Report

Dear Campus Community,

As we close Fiscal Year 2026, I am proud to reflect on a year defined by intentional growth, strengthened partnerships, and a deepened commitment to student well‑being and belonging. Campus Recreation continues to be a cornerstone of the Shocker experience—providing spaces, programs, and leadership opportunities that support the holistic development of our students and the broader university community.

A Year of Purposeful Engagement and Student-Centered Progress

FY26 was a year of meaningful connection. One of our most impactful initiatives was our expanded outreach to future first‑generation Shockers through Shocker Community Night, where we welcomed K–12 students and families to experience Wichita State and learn about the role Campus Recreation plays in student life. This event strengthened our pipeline to first‑generation students and reinforced our commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible campus.

We also made significant progress in tracking first‑generation student engagement across our programs and student employment. By monitoring participation and hiring trends, we are better equipped to identify barriers, measure progress, and intentionally increase first‑generation involvement in Campus Recreation. This work aligns closely with university priorities, and I was honored to contribute to these efforts as a member of the First‑Generation Council during FY26.

Student Leadership, Training, and Applied Learning

Our student employees remain the heart of Campus Recreation. More than 120 student staff members contributed to facility operations, intramural sports, aquatics, fitness, and customer service this year. Their leadership, professionalism, and cultural diversity enrich our department and reflect the global community of Wichita State.

FY26 also marked major progress in developing an AI‑supported onboarding and training system designed to streamline learning, improve consistency, and strengthen applied learning. This initiative will launch in FY27 and represents a significant step toward modernizing student employment and enhancing operational excellence.

Programs that Build Community and Belonging

Campus Recreation programs continued to thrive, offering students opportunities to connect, compete, and grow. Intramural Sports, Sport Clubs, F45, group fitness, aquatics, and signature events such as Clash of the Colleges and the Pumpkin Run brought thousands of students together throughout the year. These programs play a critical role in supporting retention, mental health, and campus pride.

We also expanded partnerships with academic units, community organizations, and campus departments—reinforcing our role as a collaborative, student‑centered contributor to WSU’s mission and student success priorities.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare for FY27, our focus will center on three strategic priorities:

• Launching the AI‑supported onboarding and training system to elevate student employment and operational consistency.
• Expanding first‑generation student engagement, using our new tracking systems to guide programming, hiring, and outreach.
• Continuing to strengthen facility reliability and safety, ensuring our spaces remain welcoming, accessible, and student‑ready.

These priorities reflect our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

Gratitude

Thank you to our dedicated staff, student leaders, campus partners, and the thousands of students who bring energy and purpose to our facilities every day. Your collaboration and passion make Campus Recreation a vibrant and essential part of the Shocker experience. Together, we are building a healthier, more connected, and more engaged campus community.

With gratitude,

John Lee
Campus Recreation Director
Wichita State University

121,991 Entries

25-meter, eight-lane swimming pool and separate diving well with 350,000 gallons of crystal-clear climate controlled water.

Campus Recreation advanced its assessment practices significantly in FY26, strengthening data‑driven decision‑making, improving program quality, and aligning departmental outcomes with Wichita State University’s strategic priorities. Through intentional evaluation of programs, services, student employment, and facility operations, the department produced actionable insights that directly support student success, retention, and well‑being.

Student Engagement & Participation Outcomes

Campus Recreation continued to serve as a major point of engagement for WSU students. Assessment data from FY26 showed:

• Sustained participation across intramurals, sport clubs, fitness programs, and open recreation.
• Growth in Sport Club engagement, with several clubs increasing membership, travel, and competitive activity.
• High utilization of the Heskett Center and associated facilities, reinforcing the department’s role as a daily touchpoint for student life.

These engagement metrics demonstrate the department’s continued impact on belonging, community building, and student retention.

Student Employment & Learning Outcomes

Campus Recreation employed more than 120 student staff members in FY26, providing structured opportunities for leadership, applied learning, and professional development. Assessment of student employees showed:

• Strong gains in communication, problem‑solving, customer service, and risk management skills.
• Increased confidence in handling real‑world responsibilities such as conflict resolution, emergency response, and facility operations.
• Positive feedback on supervisory support, training clarity, and opportunities for growth.

These outcomes reinforce Campus Recreation’s role as one of the university’s largest and most impactful applied learning environments.

Program Quality & Satisfaction

Across intramurals, sport clubs, fitness programs, and special events, FY26 assessment data reflected:

• High satisfaction with program quality, staff professionalism, and facility cleanliness.
• Strong demand for inclusive, low‑barrier programming that supports mental health and social connection.
• Continued interest in competitive and recreational opportunities that foster teamwork and leadership.

Feedback collected through surveys, event evaluations, and informal assessments guided program adjustments throughout the year.

Strategic Alignment & Continuous Improvement

FY26 assessment activities directly supported WSU’s institutional goals by:

• Enhancing student success through engagement and well‑being.
• Strengthening community partnerships through outreach programs and events.
• Supporting recruitment efforts via facility tours, Boats & Bikes, and high‑visibility campus events.
• Improving operational efficiency through data‑informed planning and resource allocation.

Campus Recreation used assessment findings to refine programs, adjust staffing models, improve communication, and plan for future facility and program enhancements.

Risk Management, Safety, and Compliance

Assessment of safety practices and compliance revealed:

• Consistent adherence to emergency protocols and risk‑management standards.
• Improved reporting accuracy for injuries, incidents, and facility concerns.
• Strengthened training for CPR/First Aid, concussion awareness, and facility supervision.

These improvements support a safer environment for all participants and reinforce the department’s commitment to responsible operations.

Conclusion

FY26 marked a year of meaningful progress in assessment, with Campus Recreation leveraging data to improve student experiences, strengthen operational effectiveness, and advance university priorities. The department remains committed to continuous improvement and to providing high‑quality, inclusive, and engaging opportunities that help students thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Campus Recreation is a core contributor to Wichita State University’s identity as a premier urban public research university—one that fuels applied learning, community prosperity, and student success. Through high‑impact programs, inclusive facilities, and extensive partnerships, Campus Recreation directly advances the university’s vision, mission, and strategic priorities while serving as a daily touchpoint for thousands of students.

Campus Recreation plays a critical role in Wichita State University’s Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) framework by strengthening recruitment, retention, belonging, and community engagement. Through applied learning, inclusive programming, and high‑impact outreach—such as the new Shocker Community Night for First‑Gen K–12 students—Campus Recreation advances multiple SEM goals while enhancing the overall student experience.

SEM Goal 1: Foster a Culture of Enrollment Growth & Positive Experience

Key Contributions

• Applied Learning & Paid Student Employment (Strategy 1.4) Campus Recreation is one of WSU’s largest student employers, providing 120+ paid positions that build leadership, supervision, customer service, and risk‑management skills. These roles reduce student debt and strengthen career readiness.
• Community & Alumni Engagement (Strategy 1.3) Programs such as Boats & Bikes, Shocker Rowing, Sport Clubs, and community partnerships increase campus visibility and build long‑term affinity for WSU.
• Shocker Community Night for First‑Gen K–12 Students (Strategy 1.5) This new initiative directly supports at‑promise youth by:
  • Introducing first‑generation families to WSU in a welcoming, low‑pressure environment
  • Building early belonging and confidence
  • Strengthening community trust and awareness of WSU resources
  • Creating future ambassadors among families, teachers, and youth organizations
  • This event is a high‑impact SEM initiative that aligns perfectly with early‑engagement goals.

Not Directly Contributing

• Academic data systems (1.1)
• Academic program development (1.2)

SEM Goal 2: Increase Enrollment of New, Degree-Bound Students

Key Contributions

• Recruitment Influence (Strategies 2.1 & 2.2) Campus Recreation is a major driver of prospective student decision‑making through:
  • Campus tours and Black & Yellow Day experiences
  • High‑impact facilities and programs (Esports, Outdoor Adventures, Rowing)
  • Orientation and welcome‑week engagement
• Pipeline Partnerships (Strategy 2.3) Collaborations with schools, youth organizations, and community groups—including Shocker Community Night—expand WSU’s reach into first‑gen and underrepresented populations.

SEM Goal 3: Increase Persistence Rates of Degree-Seeking Students

Key Contributions

• Standard of Care & Student Support (Strategy 3.2) Campus Recreation provides a safe, inclusive environment with trained staff who support student well‑being.
• Belonging, Wellness & Success Mindset (Strategy 3.5) Intramurals, Sport Clubs, group fitness, and social programs build community, reduce stress, and improve academic performance. Student employment develops confidence, leadership, and transferable skills that support persistence.

Not Directly Contributing

• Academic advising (3.1)
• Major transitions (3.3)
• Financial aid outreach (3.4)

SEM Goal 4: Increase Non-Degree, For-Credit Enrollment

Indirect Contributions

• Supports academic units using recreation spaces for applied learning and research.
• Builds community relationships that may lead to future badge or certificate participation.

Not Directly Contributing

• Badge development, certificate marketing, or early college access programming

Overall Impact

Campus Recreation is a strategic enrollment partner that strengthens WSU’s ability to recruit, retain, and graduate students by:

• Creating belonging and community—key predictors of persistence
• Providing one of the largest applied‑learning ecosystems on campus
• Enhancing the campus experience for prospective and current students
• Supporting at‑promise youth through Shocker Community Night and early engagement
• Building community partnerships that expand WSU’s visibility and future enrollment pipelines

Campus Recreation’s work directly advances multiple SEM goals and positions the department as a vital contributor to WSU’s long‑term enrollment success.

Campus Recreation continued to strengthen student engagement, community partnerships, and operational excellence throughout FY26. The department played a central role in supporting student well‑being, belonging, and applied learning while advancing strategic initiatives that position the program for continued growth in FY27.

Top 5 Accomplishments – FY26

1. Secured $230,000 to Replace Divider Curtains in the Heskett Gym Successfully obtained funding to replace aging divider curtains, improving safety, functionality, and the overall student experience in one of the most heavily used recreation spaces on campus.
2. Launched AI‑Supported Onboarding Framework Developed the foundation for a modernized, scalable onboarding and training system to improve consistency, reduce staff workload, and enhance student employee readiness.
3. Enhanced Student Employee Development Supported more than 120 student employees who gained applied learning experience in leadership, customer service, risk management, and facility operations.
4. Delivered High‑Impact Campus Events Successfully executed major events including the Pumpkin Run, Wellness Expo, Boats & Bikes programming, and Welcomefest activities, strengthening campus culture and visibility.
5. Introduced New Signature Event: Community Night at Wichita State University Designed and launched a K–12 and family‑focused event to strengthen community relationships, promote college readiness, and showcase campus resources.

Top 5 Goals – FY27

1. Fully Implement AI‑Supported Onboarding & Training Launch a complete, scalable system for student employee onboarding, training, and competency tracking across all program areas.
2. Secure Funding & Begin Replacement of Activity Hallway Flooring Advance capital improvement planning to address safety, accessibility, and modernization needs for the 40‑year‑old activity hallway.
3. Advance Tennis Center Transformation – Phase 2 Planning Develop a multi‑use recreation hub plan including tennis, basketball, futsal, pickleball, and year‑round student programming.
4. Strengthen First‑Generation Student Engagement Increase first‑gen participation in Campus Recreation programs and student employment through targeted outreach, partnerships, and inclusive programming.
5. Enhance Marketing & Visibility for F45, Aquatics, and Rowing Launch refreshed campaigns to increase participation, strengthen program identity, and elevate awareness across campus and the community.

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Directors Award: Jaiden Flatt

Jose Vidal Service: Wyatt Seacat

Pride and Quality:Angel Merino

Friend of Campus Recreation: Luz Martinez

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Aquatics

Leader of the Year: Luis Guzman

Fitness & Health

Emerging Leader of the Year: Malakai Schaad

Leader of the Year: Angel Merino

Sport Programs

Emerging Leader of the Year: Carter Heil

Leader of the Year: Xavier Westbrook

Facilities

Emerging Leader of the Year: --

Leader of the Year: Ma’Liyah Anderson

Shocker Rowing

Oarsman of the Year: Austin Weston

Oarswoman of the Year: Cassidy Barr

Scholarship Award Winners

Golden Whistle Scholarship

• Emmy Callahan
• Elijah Hildebrand

Bob & Darlene Anderson Scholarship

• Larry Easterly

Gerald Sinsel Scholarship

• Hannah Murphy
• Maggie Brown
• Carol Wilkening

Gamble Memorial Scholarship

• Alison Casey

Committee Work

Beth Albers

• Clash of the Colleges

Calvin Cupp

• Water Coalition of Wichita

Trent Koehler

• SE&B Involvement & Orientation Committee
• Shocktober Fest Planning Committee (FY26)
• Student Affairs Conduct
• GWOA (Greater Wichita Officials Association)

John Lee

• Campus Climate
• WSU Connect Advisor
• WSU Open Streets
• Shocker Community Event
• First Gen Cultural & Community Group
• Maize Recreation Board

Karolina Mosa

• Youth Outreach Council
• Women’s Leadership Initiative
• HSAB Wellness

Rachel Tuck

• ACRA Board - Plains Regional Rep
• Water Coalition of Wichita
• Wichita Clean Streams
• Arkansas River Clean-Up
• Student Affairs Mentorship
• Honors Advisory Board
• Delano Business Association
• Women in Coaching

Laura Young

• Student Affairs Marketing Group
• Scouting America Troop 683

Awards & Recognition

Rachel Tuck:

Shocker Responsive- Student Affairs

John Lee:

Bend but Don’t Break-Student Affairs

Calvin Cupp:

Pi Alpha Alpha - The National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration

 

Academic Year: Fall 2025 – Spring 2026

Aquatics Staff

Campus Recreation’s Aquatics program remains one of the most safety‑critical and high‑responsibility student employment environments at Wichita State University. Lifeguards and aquatics staff operate in a setting where vigilance, rapid decision‑making, and clear communication directly impact patron safety. The NACE Career Readiness evaluations for Fall 2025–Spring 2026 reflect a student team that is mature, attentive, and increasingly prepared for professional roles requiring risk awareness, emergency readiness, and strong interpersonal skills.

Across all submitted evaluations, Aquatics staff demonstrated consistently high performance in the eight national Career Readiness Competencies. Their work supports not only the safe operation of the Heskett Center pool, but also the broader mission of Campus Recreation to provide a welcoming, inclusive, and well‑managed environment for the campus community.

F45 Staff

Campus Recreation’s F45 student employment program continues to operate as one of Wichita State University’s most advanced, high‑impact learning environments. The F45 team functions in a fast‑paced, nationally branded fitness setting that demands exceptional communication, leadership presence, safety awareness, and member engagement. Across all submitted NACE‑aligned evaluations, F45 instructors demonstrated consistently strong performance in the eight national Career Readiness Competencies, reflecting a student workforce that is mature, reliable, and increasingly prepared for professional success in both fitness and non‑fitness career pathways.

Facility Staff

Campus Recreation’s Facility Staff continue to serve as the operational backbone of the Heskett Center, ensuring a safe, reliable, and welcoming environment for thousands of students, faculty, staff, and community members. The Facility Operations program is one of Wichita State University’s most hands‑on, safety‑critical student employment experiences, requiring strong judgment, communication, and accountability

Across all submitted NACE‑aligned evaluations for Fall 2025–Spring 2026, Facility Staff demonstrated consistently high performance in the eight national Career Readiness Competencies. The results reflect a student workforce that is dependable, attentive, and increasingly prepared for professional roles requiring responsibility, customer service, and risk‑aware decision‑making.

Intramural Staff

Campus Recreation’s student employment intramural program continues to serve as one of Wichita State University’s strongest high‑impact learning environments. Across all submitted NACE-aligned evaluations, student staff demonstrated consistently high performance in the eight national Career Readiness Competencies. The results reflect a student workforce that is dependable, communicative, inclusive, and increasingly prepared for professional success after graduation.

 

A comprehensive evaluation of student engagement, belonging, well‑being, and persistence across Campus Recreation programs.

Campus Recreation conducted multiple assessments throughout FY26 to measure student satisfaction, sense of belonging, well‑being, and the impact of programs on the overall Wichita State experience. The results demonstrate that Campus Recreation is a powerful contributor to student success, retention, and campus culture—particularly among first‑generation and at‑promise student populations.

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Post Event Evaluations

Assessed: Major Campus Recreation events throughout the year

Purpose: Measure satisfaction, belonging, and the event’s contribution to the campus experience.

Key Findings:

• 93% agreed the event was well organized.
• 91% rated the event as outstanding.
• 87% said the event enhanced their overall WSU experience.
• 78% reported the event made them more likely to continue at WSU.
• 80% felt included and accepted at the event.
• 89% said the experience was inclusive and accepting of them.

Impact Statement: Campus Recreation events consistently deliver high‑quality, inclusive experiences that strengthen belonging and positively influence student persistence. 

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Intramural Sports Evaluations

Assessed: End‑of‑year participant experience

Purpose: Measure satisfaction, belonging, health impact, and connection to campus.

Key Findings:

• 29% of participants were First‑Generation students.
• 93% reported Intramurals helped them live a healthier lifestyle.
• 85% said Intramurals enhanced their overall WSU experience.
• 56% are more likely to continue at WSU because of Intramurals.
• 78% felt included and accepted.
• 81% said the program was inclusive and accepting of them.

Impact Statement: Intramural Sports is a high‑impact retention program, especially for first‑generation students, improving health, belonging, and persistence.

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Rowing Participation Survey

Assessed: Shocker Rowing team members

Purpose: Evaluate satisfaction, health outcomes, and campus connection.

Key Findings:

• 100% formed positive connections with other students.
• 100% reported improved health and well‑being.
• 100% felt the team was inclusive and accepting.
• 29% were First‑Generation students.
• 100% felt more connected to campus through rowing.

Impact Statement: Shocker Rowing builds strong peer networks, supports well‑being, and fosters deep campus connection—key drivers of student retention.

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Sport Club Survey

Assessed: Major Campus Recreation events throughout the year

Purpose: Measure satisfaction, belonging, health impact, and persistence.

Key Findings:

• 31% of participants were First‑Generation students.
• 100% said Sport Clubs improved their health and lifestyle.
• 100% said Sport Clubs enhanced their overall WSU experience.
• 77% are more likely to continue at WSU because of Sport Clubs.
• 95% felt included and accepted.
• 97% said their club was inclusive and accepting.

Impact Statement: Sport Clubs are one of the strongest contributors to belonging and persistence, with exceptional outcomes among first‑generation students.

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Campus Recreation Student Staff Survey

Assessed: Student employees across all program areas

Purpose: Evaluate student employee satisfaction, development, and connection to campus.

Key Findings:

• 96% felt like a valuable member of the team.
• 96% said their skills were effectively used.
• 96% would recommend working for Campus Recreation.
• 89% would consider returning as staff.
• 92% felt Campus Recreation was inclusive and accepting.
• 68% said working for Campus Rec made them feel connected to the WSU community.
• 37% identified as First‑Generation students.

Impact Statement: Campus Recreation is one of WSU’s most impactful applied‑learning employers, building confidence, leadership, and campus connection.

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Clash of the Colleges Assessment

Assessed: Participants in WSU’s largest welcome‑week tradition

Purpose: Measure satisfaction, belonging, and the event’s contribution to early student success.

Key Findings:

• 85% said the event was well organized.
• 84% rated the event as outstanding.
• 88% said it enhanced their WSU experience.
• 62% are more likely to continue at WSU because of the event.
• 79% felt included and accepted.
• 89% said the experience was inclusive and accepting.

Impact Statement: Clash of the Colleges is a signature retention event that builds early belonging and sets the tone for a positive first‑year experience.

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Overall FY26 Assessment Summary

Across all program areas, Campus Recreation demonstrated exceptional outcomes in:

Belonging & Inclusion

• 80–100% of students consistently reported feeling included, accepted, and welcomed.

Health & Well Being

• 93–100% of participants across Intramurals, Sport Clubs, and Rowing reported improved health and lifestyle.

Campus Experience

• 87–100% said Campus Recreation programs enhanced their overall WSU experience.

Persistence & Retention

• 56–78% of participants indicated they are more likely to continue at WSU because of Campus Recreation programs.

First Generation Impact

• 29–37% of participants in several programs were first generation students—demonstrating strong engagement among at promise populations.

Final Impact Statement

Campus Recreation is a high impact, student centered department that significantly contributes to Wichita State’s Strategic Enrollment Management goals. Through inclusive programming, applied learning, community building, and signature events, Campus Recreation strengthens student belonging, enhances well being, and improves persistence, making it a vital component of the WSU student experience.

(316) 265-9359

https://wichita.edu/boatsandbikes