The Final Exam is your chance to get to know leaders in the industry. For the November/December 2025 issue, Campus Rec Magazine spoke with Jessica Scibek, the director of Campus Recreation for CENTERS LLC at the University of New Haven.
1. How did you get started in the industry?
Totally by accident. I was working as an exercise physiologist managing a corporate fitness center and I needed a new challenge. A former professor recommended I apply for a new role at the university on campus. I became the assistant director of the fitness center at Southern Connecticut State University and found my calling in higher education. Later I earned a second master’s degree in sport management to solidify my commitment to the field and continuous learning. After 15 years, I joined CENTERS LLC as the director of Campus Recreation at the University of New Haven where I’m starting my fifth year.
2. How would you go about describing campus recreation at the University of New Haven?
If I had to describe it in one word, it would be growth — our department’s theme this year. With updated professional roles and new team members, we’ve welcomed club sports back under our umbrella, we’re bringing in new fitness equipment in renovated spaces and we’re investing in new initiatives to reach higher participation goals. More importantly, our programming, student development opportunities and workplace culture continue to evolve so we can better support our students’ well-being, leadership and sense of belonging. It’s not just our department that’s growing, but we’re providing opportunities for our members of our community to grow and develop as well.
3. What’s been one of the biggest challenges you have faced throughout your career?
The biggest challenge in my career was leaving the comfort and familiarity of my first recreation position and stepping into the director role at a new university. I realized I couldn’t possibly have all the answers. By leaning on mentors, continuing to learn and embracing growth, I’ve become a stronger leader and continue to build strong connections with amazing colleagues both inside and outside of CENTERS who support my success.
4. What’s been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
My goal as a professional is to create opportunities for others to do well and be well. When a former student tells me they still exercise because I helped them feel confident at the gym or a past intern shares they pursued a career in fitness because I gave them a nudge to get certified, it reaffirms why I do this work.
5. What’s one lesson you have learned that other recreation professionals might benefit from?
There’s not just one right way to do things. The best outcomes may come from drawing on the experience of others and being open to the perspectives and expertise of your team. Bringing others into decision making creates buy-in, trust and can lead to great results.
6. What’s one fun fact about yourself that others may not know?
I set a professional goal a few years ago and learned to play golf just to be able to participate in a NIRSA pre-conference event. I won’t call myself a golfer yet, but it’s been fun learning to play. I also work in New Haven, which is known for the best pizza in the country, so I am a pizza snob. Modern Apizza is my absolute favorite — second only to my husband’s homemade New Haven style pizza.
