Marie VanBuskirk

Associate Director, University Recreation & Well-Being

Marie VanBuskirk is a creative, strategic, and big-picture leader with nearly three decades of experience shaping people-centered recreation and student development environments. As Associate Director, she supports a talented team that oversees all Rec Well facilities, student development, intramural and club sports, member services, marketing and revenue generation —bringing together operational excellence, collaboration, and a talent for turning great ideas into meaningful experiences.

Driven by a passion for elevating customer service, fostering student success, and streamlining operations, Marie has focused on streamlining Rec Well operations and launched signature OU initiatives including the Emerging Leadership Program, Golden Grizzlies Lead Workshops, and the Student Affairs Kick-Off. She’s known for connecting people, standardizing processes, and always asking the next question.

Marie holds an M.S. in Recreation Administration from Ohio University and a B.A.A. in Recreation & Leisure Services Administration with a concentration in commercial recreation and facility management from Central Michigan University. She further strengthened her professional foundation by completing both NIRSA Rec Sports Schools for Professionals and graduating from Oakland University’s Leadership Academy. Her leadership extends across campus and the collegiate recreation field, including two terms as AP Association President, chairing multiple Student Affairs committees, serving on the NIRSA Leaders in Collegiate Recreation Assembly, and earning nomination to the Michigan Recreational Sports Association (MIRSA) Executive Board.

Her work has earned recognition at every level, including:

• Outstanding Administrative Professional of the Year (OU, 2022)
• MIRSA Tom R. Jones Outstanding Member Award (2017)
• NIRSA Annual Service Award (2017–2018)
• CMU Outstanding Alumnus in Recreational Sports (2016)
• Dr. Michael J. Stevenson MIRSA Service Award (2014)
• OU Employee of the Month (2007 & 2014)

When she’s off the clock, Marie is happiest cheering on her four kids at sporting events, spending time with friends, cranking up good music, and escaping “up north” to her favorite place—Higgins Lake.