Celebrating Black History Month: NIRSA Rec Day 2024

Published: February 1, 2024

On February 22, 1950, NIRSA, formerly known as the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association, was founded by Dr. William Wasson. Dr. Wasson and 20 representatives from 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities gathered that day for their first conference at Dillard University in New Orleans.

Each year we celebrate NIRSA Recreational Sports and Fitness Day (NIRSA Rec Day) on February 22 to honor those visionary members who helped shape collegiate recreation. Today, UCLA Recreation honors these scholars’ ideas on research and inclusion as we strive to provide spaces where all Bruins can pursue their well-being.

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, we want to honor Black individuals like NIRSA founder Dr. William Wasson whose work empowered change and began conversations for the health and well-being of students across the country. Thanks to him and the other scholars represented in 1950, NIRSA continues to provide resources and development opportunities for the advancement of collegiate recreation programs including our own at UCLA Recreation.

Be sure to join us today in celebrating NIRSA Rec Day by participating in your favorite recreational activity!

Learn more about NIRSA and NIRSA Rec Day.

Photo: Inaugural meeting of the National Intramural Association, February 1950. NIRSA.net