The July/August issue of of Campus Rec Magazine features Missouri State University (MSU) on its cover.
MSU is dedicated to fostering good citizenship through its public affairs mission, emphasizing cultural competence, community engagement, and ethical leadership. Ashleigh Lewellen, Director of Campus Recreation at MSU, aligns deeply with this mission. Having joined MSU in 2010, Lewellen’s diverse recreation background, including experiences in Japan and local parks, has equipped her to impact students through various recreational opportunities.
Campus Recreation at MSU is housed in the Foster Recreation Center (FRC), known for its welcoming and versatile design. The facility hosts a range of programs, from high school admissions events to middle school field days and upscale banquets. A notable annual event is the Haunted Trail, where the FRC transforms into a Halloween-themed experience, attracting nearly 1,000 students. This event not only provides a safe, on-campus activity but also fosters creativity and teamwork among campus rec staff.
Another significant initiative is Camp Claw, a summer camp launched in 2022. Despite initial challenges, the camp has grown by 20% annually, bringing vibrancy to the campus during summer. The camp emphasizes positive character qualities, aligning with MSU’s goal of developing good citizens. It also offers practical benefits, providing engaging summer jobs for students and exposing the FRC to the local community.
The Student Leadership Team program further exemplifies the commitment to citizenship. This 17-week program guides eight students through event planning and leadership skills development, culminating in the implementation of their projects. This initiative fosters cross-functional experience and enhances the student leadership culture on campus.
Campus Recreation staff also embody the citizenship ethos by volunteering in the community, such as serving at the Ozarks Food Harvest and participating in professional organizations. The team’s involvement underscores their dedication to modeling the citizenship values they promote.
Integrating technology is another focus area, with new fitness equipment featuring customizable screens for marketing and announcements, and the introduction of Peloton bikes and TrueCoach for personal training. These advancements reflect the evolving preferences of students and the ongoing effort to enhance recreational offerings.
As such, in this video, editor Heather Hartmann takes readers behind the July/August 2024 cover story and evaluates the power of having a mission point the way.
