Campus Recreation receives award for Retiree Wellbeing Program

Campus Recreation was recently awarded the 2026 National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) Innovative Programming Award for its Retiree Wellbeing Program. The recognition highlights Wake Forest’s commitment to supporting well-being across every stage of life, including its retiree population. The program also reflects Campus Recreation’s mission to develop the whole person and promote lifelong well-being.

The Campus Rec Innovative Programming Awards recognize programs that push boundaries, create meaningful experiences, and inspire positive changes in campus recreation. The award also celebrates the outstanding work happening in campus recreation centers that enhance students, and in this case, retiree success. It highlights initiatives that strengthen community and promote health and well-being.

The Retiree Wellbeing Program offers physical activities while nurturing community, relationships, and educational opportunities. Retirees are invited to a monthly gathering in the Wellbeing Center Living room on the second Tuesday of the month, featuring guest speakers on topics such as retiree benefits and campus updates. The gatherings include light refreshments and regularly draw up to 40 attendees. A pickleball league is also offered weekly to retirees on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“We were one of, if not the first, Campus Recreation programs in the country to intentionally weave retiree wellbeing into our department,” shared Anthony Carson, assistant director of brand experience and community relations. “The Program is a unique opportunity for us to look at wellbeing holistically for every stage of life. Beyond just building healthy and active habits in the traditional college student, we’ve been intentional about fostering that for all of our campus community; students, faculty, staff, and retirees.” 

Retired director of the Learning Assistance Center and Disability Services (CLASS), Van Westervelt, is one of the many retirees who enjoy the Wellbeing Program. 

“At the monthly gatherings, you get the benefit of the speaker and the area they’re speaking on, with a wide range of topics from nostalgic things at Wake Forest to very practical things, like how to manage Medicare. Additionally, it expands your awareness of options for what to do in retirement. You also get the expertise of the people who have been in the retirement game for quite a while,” said Westervelt. 

Wake Forest employees who were benefits-eligible at the time of their retirement are eligible for a complimentary Wellbeing Center membership. Retirees who were not eligible for benefits at retirement may purchase a membership. Wake Forest retirees may also purchase a membership for their spouse or partner. 

“I applaud everyone who has marshaled the Retiree Wellbeing program to what it is. I plan to keep going, stay connected with people, learn new things, and stay stimulated,” added Westervelt. 

Learn more about Retiree Wellbeing offerings.