Like many teenagers, Kelly Schmidt’s first job was lifeguarding at a local swimming pool. For Schmidt, the summer gig provided more than just spending cash: It launched a career in parks and recreation that’s taken her on a professional path to some of the nation’s most interesting recreational hubs.
Schmidt, a Bobcat alum who graduated in 2009 with a master’s degree in recreation and leisure services administration and management, will start a new job in August as the University of Arkansas’ director of Programs, Campus Recreation, and Wellness. In the position, she will steward the university’s range of recreation programs, from its sports injury clinic to outdoor recreation programs and intramural sports.
“I’m excited to help open doors to new adventures and create meaningful experiences for our students,” Schmidt says. “With a large, diverse campus, there’s incredible potential to build a community where everyone feels connected, supported, and empowered to make the most of their collegiate journey. I’ll certainly call on my incredible TXST experience as a buoy for this next chapter.”
Schmidt is returning to Northwest Arkansas—where she previously worked in outdoor recreation project management, philanthropy, and community events—after spending a year and a half in Colorado as the City of Durango’s director of Parks and Recreation. Family ties to Arkansas motivated her return to the “Natural State.”
“I love the service aspect of working for local government municipalities and the community involvement in Durango,” Schmidt says. “I take great pride in the work we’ve accomplished together in Durango, and connections made throughout the community. As a firm believer in ‘family first,’ I knew stepping down was the right decision for both my loved ones, me, and for Durango Parks and Recreation.”
Schmidt was already an experienced professional when she enrolled in graduate school at TXST in 2007. Housed in the College of Education, the Department of Health and Human Performance currently offers multiple master’s degrees, including two in recreation and leisure services—one focused on recreation and sports management and one focused on recreational therapy.
“My time at Texas State was really valuable in so many ways, especially the relationships and professional connections,” Schmidt says. “I just aligned with everything the program had to offer.”
A native of Tampa Bay, Florida, Schmidt started in parks and recreation during her high school years as a lifeguard at a water park and then the YMCA. After working in Florida, she spent time as a lead in the outdoor recreation program at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in natural resources recreation and tourism from Colorado State University.