Programs

• Aquatics
• Club Sports
• Group Fitness
• Intramural Activities
• Personal Training
• Adventure Recreation
• Ice Skating
• Special Events

Staff

• Staff Directory
• Staff Intranet (secure)

Staff Interviews

ONE-on-ONE with

Ed Morford

Position: Assistant Director – Risk Management

Education: BA Literature, SUNY-Oneonta; MS Education, University of Texas-Austin

What made you decide to earn a master's degree in education?
I spent my undergrad taking classes that I enjoyed. My masters work was done in the field of education, specifically motor skills acquisition. It was what I loved to do . . . coach and teach.

What was your first recreational position? Your first professional position?
My first recreational experience was as the typical guard/swim instructor. As I continued on with my education I worked solely in the education department for the U of Texas at Austin. I would then move on to the State University system in New York where I opened and ran the aquatics facility, as well as serving as part-time faculty.

What are your current job responsibilities?
As Assistant Director of Aquatics, I am responsible for all aspects of aquatic recreation on campus, including four pools and over 80 employees. I also started and oversee all levels of swim classes that serve infants through adults.

What is the best part about working for Campus Rec?
A definite plus of working for Campus Rec at Illinois is the staff I work with. I respect my co-workers at a professional level, as well as enjoying them at a personal level. But the best part of working in the field is definitely the STUDENTS!

What is the most challenging aspect of working for Campus Rec?
Also the students! It's a challenge to keep up with the best and the brightest. Likewise, it's a challenge to motivate and educate the one's that need a push.

What are you most proud of accomplishing professionally?
In the past, I might have answered by citing facets of my job including publications and presentations or even programs I devised and implemented, such as the Learn-to-Swim Program. However, my view has changed. Now, it's the students I have worked with over the years that become successful adults and the relationships I hold with those individuals.

What are your future professional goals?
I would like to continue on to a position of more responsibility.