Episode 27: Shelbi Long at the University of Pennsylvania

Welcome to the Director Download, powered by Campus Rec Magazine.  It’s time to go behind the curtain of the director role and have honest discussions with leaders in the campus recreation industry.    In this episode, host Grady Sheffield, the director of Campus Recreation at Towson University and the senior advisor to Campus Rec Magazine, gives you the listener real and authentic conversation between himself and special guest Shelbi Long, the director of recreation at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). Long shares her journey from her athletic roots at Lock Haven University, through various roles within campus recreation, to her current position at UPenn. She delves into her transition from athlete to administrator, the influence of mentorship on her career and her approach to leadership — which prioritizes people first and looks to foster strong relationships. Moreover, Long discusses the complexities of operating within the Ivy League environment, emphasizing the unique challenges and the strategic necessity of being adaptable and resilient. As Long approaches significant milestones in her career, she reflects on the evolution of her roles and the broader implications for campus recreation leadership, providing valuable insights for current and aspiring directors in the field. Enjoy this conversation that offers a glimpse into the life of a campus recreation director.