Department Summary
The Michigan Recreation Department at the University of Michigan is dedicated to fostering a healthy lifestyle through engagement, leadership, and active participation. The department manages several programs, four indoor facilities, three outdoor field complexes, and an adventure-based education center. The department plays a vital role in campus life and well-being with a team of 40+ full-time staff members and 650+ student employees. Established in 1913, it is recognized as one of the first collegiate recreation programs. It was the first to develop a facility specifically for student recreation, the Intramural Sports Building, which opened in 1928. Michigan Recreation operates within the Division of Student Life, reporting to the Associate Vice President of Student Life for Health and Wellness.
Position Summary
The Assistant Director will lead the management and expansion of our fitness and wellness programs, including group fitness, wellness workshops, fitness challenges, and other initiatives that align with campus and departmental wellness strategies and policies. This role provides strategic leadership and vision for these programs and their staff. Key responsibilities include creating budgets, policies, and procedures, supervising the Program Manager for Group-X, and overseeing daily operations. Additionally, the Assistant Director will be instrumental in developing training curricula and certification modules for Group-X Instructors. The role also involves maintaining multiple fitness certifications and occasionally serving as a backup group exercise instructor. Moreover, the Assistant Director will represent the department on various assigned committees.
Program Oversight (50%):
- Group-X Program
- Provide strategic leadership for Michigan Recreation, overseeing the development and execution of exceptional group fitness programming that anticipates and exceeds the diverse needs of the campus community. Cultivate an inclusive and welcoming environment across three state-of-the-art recreation facilities, ensuring service, engagement, and operational effectiveness. Drive continuous improvement through staff development, resource management, and alignment with departmental priorities.
- Ensure Michigan Recreation provides high-quality group fitness classes that meet the diverse needs on campus and provide an inclusive environment within three comprehensive recreation facilities.
- Evaluate the Group X program to ensure our offerings are relevant to the trends. Research and meet the needs of the students.
- Lead curriculum development and updates for instructor mentorship programs for applications of need.
- Recruit and evaluate temporary staff associated with the fitness and wellness programs.
- Stay updated on anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics through continuing education to ensure best practices in fitness instruction.
- Cultivate positive and productive relationships in a collaborative team setting.
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