SIUE’s Becherer Promoted to Director of Campus Recreation
Keith Becherer has been appointed director of Campus Recreation at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville after a national search led by Kelly Jo Karnes, director of SIUE’s Kimmel Student Involvement Center, and her search committee. Becherer has served as interim director of the department since January 2015.
“Keith brings a wealth of institutional knowledge along with familiarity of the needs of our campus community to the position,” said Narbeth Emmanuel, SIUE vice chancellor for Student Affairs. “His passion for SIUE and commitment to the student experience is unquestioned. We fully expect that Keith and his staff will continue to provide a wealth of services and programming to meet the demands of our student population.”
“I am humbled and honored to have been selected as the successful candidate,” Becherer said. “I know the tremendous responsibility that comes with this position, and I will work tirelessly to meet the needs of our students in all aspects of operation.
“SIUE has been on an amazing upward trajectory the past few years. I am excited to continue to be a part of this outstanding institution as we continue towards our vision of achieving greater national and global recognition.”
Since the beginning of his service in SIUE’s Department of Campus Recreation nearly 13 years ago, Becherer has held positions as a graduate assistant, recreation specialist and assistant director of recreational programs. He has also served as president of the University Staff Senate.
As director, Becherer will manage multiple University facilities, including the Student Fitness Center, Activity Center, Outdoor Recreational Sports Complex, Cougar Lake Recreation Area, SIU School of Dental Medicine Fitness Zone and satellite fitness rooms located in the residence halls.
“Although I have a great familiarity with the department, I will work to gain even greater knowledge of our entire operation, as well as listen to suggestions and feedback from the staff,” he said. “We have multiple exciting initiatives underway that will further enhance the recreational experience at SIUE.”
Becherer achieved a bachelor’s in organizational communication from Xavier University and a master’s in education, kinesiology from SIUE in 2004.
Photo: Keith Becherer, director of Campus Recreation at SIUE
