Open forums scheduled for director of campus recreation

After a competitive nationwide search, the Division of Student Affairs at The University of New Mexico announces three finalists for the position of director of campus recreation.

Each candidate will participate in open forums for students, staff, and community members to learn more about their experience and engage in dialogue about their interest in the role.

Calvin Diggs, former director, Campus Recreation, Colorado State University Pueblo
Friday, Feb. 20, 3 - 3:45 p.m.
SUB Isleta
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/91283920059

Biography
Calvin Diggs is a seasoned higher education leader with more than 20 years of experience advancing student success, wellness, and inclusive excellence through campus recreation. He recently served as director of Campus Recreation at Colorado State University Pueblo, where he increased student participation by 27 percent through innovative, data-informed wellness initiatives and expanded outdoor adventure programming.

Previously, Diggs led Campus Recreation and Sports Facilities at St. Cloud State University, overseeing strategic planning, budget management, risk mitigation, and comprehensive facility operations. Throughout his career, Diggs has demonstrated expertise in organizational leadership, revenue generation, student staff development, and sustainable operations, while serving as a campus liaison to NIRSA and contributing to national committees and conferences.

Earlier in his career, Diggs held leadership roles at Vanderbilt University, Grambling State University, and Piedmont University, where he strengthened student engagement, risk management protocols, and intramural and wellness programming.

He also brings classroom experience as an adjunct professor, teaching sports administration and health courses, and holds a Master of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from Jackson State University.

An award recipient of NIRSA's Horace Moody Award and Herman Williams Award, Diggs is widely recognized for his commitment to student leadership development, equity in recreation, and professional mentorship

Zachary Hammerle, assistant director, Campus Recreation, Western Oregon University
Tuesday, Feb. 24, 3 - 3:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/96289855192

Biography
Zach Hammerle serves as assistant director at Western Oregon University Campus Recreation, leading program development, facility operations, and student-focused initiatives in outdoor adventure, climbing, fitness, and aquatics. Since 2018, he has directed diverse recreational offerings at Western Oregon and serves as adjunct faculty, teaching academic courses in rock climbing and adventure-based learning. His work emphasizes risk management, inclusive programming, revenue generation, student development, and strategic planning to build sustainable long-term programs. Prior roles include Interpretive Park Ranger with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and several roles at Texas Woman's University, managing aquatics operations, athletic facilities, multi-use spaces, event logistics, revenue generation, and laboratory facilities.

Hammerle holds an M.S. in Recreation, Leisure Studies, Sports Management, and Event Planning from the University of North Texas and has nearly two decades of experience in the recreation space. He maintains extensive certifications, including but not limited to PCIA Sport Climbing Instructor Provider, American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor/Trainer and Water Safety Instructor/Trainer, Wilderness Remote First Aid Instructor/Trainer, and Certified Pool/Spa Operator.

As a frequent presenter, Hammerle has delivered sessions at NIRSA conferences and university lectures on climbing history, altruistic behavior in recreation, environmental history, and the economy of outdoor recreation. As a member of NIRSA, IRCRA, CWA, PCIA, and AORE, he actively contributes to the field through research, advocacy, and professional mentorship. Hammerle is passionate about fostering student wellness, inclusion, and experiential learning in higher education recreation.

Jason Werle, senior associate director, Facilities & Operations, Campus Recreation, Penn State University
Wednesday, Feb. 25, 3 - 3:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/96606830961

Biography
Jason Werle brings extensive professional experience in Campus Recreation and currently serves as the sr. associate director for Facilities and Operations at Penn State University. In his current role, Werle is responsible for the vision and leadership of a dynamic facilities and operations team that includes multiple indoor facilities, fitness centers, pools, fields, and various outdoor court complexes. He has led numerous renovation and capital projects, including an Esports Center, pickleball courts, a wellness lounge, and fitness expansions.

Prior to his arrival at Penn State, Werle served in various leadership roles at the University of South Florida on both the programming and facility and operations side of the department. He understands and values the importance of creating a healthy environment and collaborating with campus partners to best serve the university community.

Werle has a passion for bringing awareness and educating others on the vital role that Campus Recreation plays in students' life and that overall success for a student extends outside the classroom. He believes that, in addition to academics, learning occurs everywhere. Everything campus recreation does should be intentional in preparing students for their next challenge in life, whether it's taking a test that afternoon, applying to grad school, or starting their professional career.

Outside of work, Werle regularly volunteers with local youth sports leagues and other organizations and enjoys time with his wife and daughters. He is an avid baseball fan and, when time permits, he fishes or hikes to get outdoors and recharge.

The director of campus recreation provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for all aspects of UNM Recreational Services -a university enterprise dedicated to delivering recreational and wellness programs for students, staff, and faculty.

Aligned with Student Affairs' strategic goals for holistic wellness, belonging, and a student-ready campus environment, the director will advance high-impact programs that promote learning, personal development, and overall well-being. This position will contribute to the implementation of DSA's 2025-2030 strategic plan, Innovating the Student Experience, which seeks to position Student Affairs as a global leader in delivering inclusive, culturally responsive, and innovative student-centered programs.