Campus News
Athletics & Recreation joins Division of Student Affairs and Success
As of August 11, Athletics & Recreation is part of the Division of Student Affairs and Success, creating new opportunities to enhance the student experience through integrated programs that support holistic development, belonging, and campus engagement.
Aerial view of Athletics and Recreation building on Sept. 23, 2024 (Photo by Nick Gonzales/UC Santa Cruz)
Athletics & Recreation has joined the Division of Student Affairs and Success. This transition, effective Aug. 11, creates new opportunities to strengthen the student experience by aligning A&R’s vibrant programs with DSAS’s broader work to support holistic development, foster belonging, and create meaningful engagement across campus.
The integration reflects the university’s focus on serving the whole student, recognizing that well-being, leadership, and community are central to academic and personal success. From NCAA athletics to intramural leagues, outdoor programs, and fitness offerings, A&R helps students stay grounded, motivated, and connected during their time at UC Santa Cruz.
“We know that student success is about so much more than academics — it’s about creating the right conditions in all areas of a student’s life, enabling them to thrive,” said Chancellor Cynthia Larive. “Bringing Athletics & Recreation into a division deeply focused on student well-being and belonging makes great sense, and I’m confident it will lead to even stronger support for all students.”
UC Santa Cruz is home to 15 NCAA Division III athletic teams, along with a wide range of club sports, fitness classes, aquatics, and recreational programming that serve thousands of students, staff, and faculty each year. A&R will continue to serve the entire campus community.
“Athletics & Recreation plays an important role in building connection, belonging, and purpose for so many of our students,” said Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Success Akirah Bradley-Armstrong. “Bringing this work into the Division of Student Affairs and Success strengthens our ability to support the whole student experience and opens up new opportunities for collaboration across campus. I’m grateful to the A&R staff for the energy and care they bring to our campus, and I’m excited for all we’ll build together.”
“This new divisional alignment is exciting for several reasons, and one of the most prominent is this new opportunity to work more closely with DSAS to enhance the overall experience that the campus engages in through Athletics and Recreation,” said Director Chris Spells. “Through this new transition and with support of the DSAS team, and Akirah’s leadership, Athletics and Recreation will continue striving to be a beacon for health, wellness, and experiential learning on this campus through our recreational programs, our 15 NCAA Division III varsity programs, our 30+ club sports, both within our current facilities, and out in the UCSC community as well.”
A&R joins a collaborative network of departments committed to engagement, well-being, and leadership. With a sharp focus on access, care, and community, the university is well-positioned to continue evolving what it means to support the whole student, while celebrating the pride and spirit that define the Banana Slug experience.