The Final Exam is your chance to get to know leaders in the industry. For the May/June 2025 issue, Campus Rec Magazine spoke with Laura Surles, the director of Recreation & Wellness at Butler University.
1. How did you get started in the industry?
I was a student athlete in basketball and was handed a whistle and stripes — pretty much figuring things out as I went. As I took on more student supervisory roles, I realized this was where I truly found my sense of belonging in undergrad. However, it was my graduate assistantship at Belmont University that really set me on the path forward. I’m incredibly lucky to have had amazing leaders and mentors who not only guided me toward this career path but also taught me the true essence of leadership.
2. How would you go about describing campus recreation at Butler University?
Recreation & Wellness at Butler plays a key role in fostering community and enhancing the student experience. We’re deeply integrated into campus life, collaborating with various departments to support student well-being, leadership development and retention efforts. Through innovative programming, a commitment to holistic wellness and our BU|BeWell framework, we contribute to a vibrant campus culture.
3. What has been one of the biggest challenges you have faced throughout your career?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career was navigating my decision to leave the field and then return. In 2021, I briefly transitioned to the corporate sector, leading customer experience teams. I wanted to improve my business acumen and blend those skills with my background in higher education, with the goal of returning to the field stronger. Balancing and adapting to those different environments, while finding the right fit at the right time, was both professionally and personally challenging for me. I’m grateful the stars aligned for me to step into the director role at Butler University — it’s a special place to be.
4. What has been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
One particularly rewarding aspect of my career has been having a hand in capital projects and the development of new recreation facilities. I’ve been lucky to work on projects that have transformed the student experience by creating dynamic, inclusive and innovative spaces for campus. Whether it’s renovating existing facilities to better meet student needs or helping to bring new spaces to life, seeing these projects go from concept to completion — and witnessing the impact they have on students — is something I take great pride in.
5. What is one lesson you have learned that other campus recreation professionals might benefit from?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned — and one I think other recreation professionals can benefit from — is to guard your energy and be intentional with where you focus your time and attention. As I’ve grown into leadership, I’ve realized that not every problem needs me. I’ve also learned effective leadership is knowing when to press and when to support — as in when to challenge my team to stretch their capabilities and when to step back and provide guidance as they navigate their own solutions. I’ve become more comfortable in the role of a seed planter, laying the foundation for ideas, supporting my team’s growth and knowing that not every initiative needs immediate resolution. Sometimes, progress happens over time and that’s OK.
6. What is one fun fact about yourself others may not know?
My husband, Hunter, and I have three dogs and are passionate about animal rescue. When living in Atlanta, one of our dogs, Lizzie, was featured on 50-plus billboards in the metro area to help raise funds for local shelters.
