Hammerle appointed director for Campus Recreation at UNM

After a competitive national search, Zachary Hammerle has been appointed as the new director for Campus Recreation at The University of New Mexico. Hammerle, with more than 10 years of higher education experience, most recently served as assistant director of Campus Recreation at Western Oregon University, overseeing program development, facility operations, student-focused initiatives and teaching adventure-based coursework.

Hammerle holds a master's degree in recreation, sports management and event planning, and a bachelor's degree in European history from the University of North Texas.

"We are pleased to welcome Zach Hammerle as our new Director for Campus Recreation," said Jenna Crabb, executive director for Student Resources. "He brings a strong track record of relevant experience, along with an energy and enthusiasm that align perfectly with our mission and goals."

Crabb is excited about the leadership and perspective Hammerle will bring to the organization and looks forward to the positive impact he will have on UNM's Recreational Services team and community.

The Director for Campus Recreation provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for Recreational Services, which delivers recreational and wellness programs for students, staff and faculty. Signature offerings include intramural sports leagues, outdoor adventure trips, fitness and group exercise classes, aquatics programs and peer-led wellness workshops.

In alignment with the Division's goals around holistic wellness, belonging and a student-ready campus, the director supports collaborative environments and high-impact programs. Such as sport club leadership development, mindfulness and stress-reduction initiatives and offering inclusive recreational events, all of which advance learning, personal development and overall well-being.

"The director serves as a steward of the facility and program and leads the team in setting the values and philosophies that will guide the future development of both," said Eric Scott, vice president for Student Affairs. "This is an exciting moment to welcome a new leader as we execute on the innovative student experience strategic plan and stand poised to identify new and creative opportunities to enhance our service to the UNM community."

Scott noted that Johnson Center serves as a critical hub for creating collaborative, synergistic opportunities that enhance the student experience across recreation, wellness, learning, research and intercollegiate athletics.

To Hammerle, this role is about the stewardship of vital student resources. "I am committed to delivering high-level sport and recreational programming while ensuring that every student-regardless of ability or background-finds a true sense of belonging here," he said. "I am thrilled to join such a fantastic team and look forward to being energized by the vibrant spirit of our campus community."

Additionally, Hammerle brings a strong sense of adventure and enjoys a wide range of outdoor activities. He values time with his family and together they hike, visit museums, attend sporting events and explore new places. He looks forward to continuing these pursuits in New Mexico, where the landscape and year-round sunshine offer abundant opportunities for the activities he loves.

After spending the past decade in the Pacific Northwest, he said he is ready for a change of climate, noting that he is looking forward to "drying out" and embracing New Mexico's sunshine.

"Everything is an adventure," Hammerle said. "Sunshine, great food, vibrant culture and an amazing institution are all things I can't wait to discover, celebrate and contribute to."