Ask me about…
- All the amazing programs our department has to offer
- The SRC expansion
- Week of Welcome event we host, called Duck N2 the Rec
- Curling
Bio: Brent began his career with PE and Recreation in the fall of 1993 as the assistant director of recreational sports and a physical education instructor. Over the years, he has served in several leadership roles, including associate director of programs, interim co-director, and currently senior associate director. Before joining the team at the University of Oregon, Brent taught high school physical education in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education from Bemidji State University in Minnesota.
Brent believes work should be enjoyable and that positivity inspires people to succeed. One of the reasons he loves coming to work each day is the opportunity to collaborate with outstanding students and staff. He strongly believes recreation plays an important role in the recruitment and retention of students, while physical education courses contribute meaningfully to student wellness and success. Together, PE and Recreation help support active, balanced lives and enhance the overall student experience both inside and outside the classroom.
Throughout his career, Brent has served on numerous university committees and departmental leadership teams, most notably the Student Life Directors Leadership Team and the PE and Recreation Leadership Team. He currently convenes the SRC Student Advisory Board and serves as the faculty and staff representative on the UO Duck Store Board of Directors. Brent is a member of NIRSA, Leaders in Collegiate Recreation and over his years has served as the Region VI Member Network Representative, President of the NIRSA Foundation and was honored with the Region VI Award of Merit.
Outside of work, Brent enjoys golf, snowboarding, and hiking. He is also devoted to his dog, Tilly, who makes sure he gets outside for two or three walks every day. What many people may not know is that Brent was once a Ukrainian dancer who toured throughout Canada and the United States. Proud of his Canadian roots, he remains a loyal fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and the Winnipeg Jets.
StrengthsQuest Top 5: Positivity, Includer, Adaptability, Harmony, Empathy