Springfield College PEHE Professor Shares Her Passion for East Campus

Springfield College Chair of the Department of Physical Education and Health Education Michelle Moosbrugger '00, PhD'06, took some time to express her passion for East Campus, and explain the impact the setting has on our campus community. 

 

 

I was first exposed to East Campus as part of New Student Orientation (NSO) in 1996. I was fascinated that such a large area of woodlands was situated in the midst of a city.  My next experience was as a camper at Outdoor Pursuits in 1997. I also participated in service at East Campus through Humanics in Action Day in 1999 where we spread mulch.  

 

I started serving as an Outdoor Pursuits staff member in my first year as a full-time faculty member in May 2008. That year, I was a day staff member and taught fishing. That was the taste I needed! I returned in May 2009 as a unit leader in the East Unit and I continue in that role to this day!  My instructional role at Outdoor Pursuits has involved fishing, outdoor games, and now the challenge course.

 

In 2014, soon after the launch of the adventure education minor at Springfield College, I co-founded Youth in Motion: Exploring and Advancing Careers in Health, Physical Activity, and Sport with my colleagues at East Campus along with those in Admissions and Alumni Relations. This past year, we celebrated 10 years of programming, which brings SC alumni, who teach health and physical education or serve as counselors in high schools, to East Campus along with their sophomores and juniors who value health and enjoy movement.  In the program, many of the East Campus strengths are on display as the students engage in reflection and leadership development on the challenge course, while alums participate in professional development - led by current students, faculty, and East Campus staff.

 

I'm also a proud Camp Massasoit parent. My two children have been campers for several years, and they aspire to work at East Campus some day!

 

 

East Campus has positively impacted the way I understand and interact with students and colleagues. The setting is conducive to seeing the whole person. Time seems to stand still, and we can have deep conversations away from the everyday rush and stress. On a personal level, East Campus also brings me a sense of peace and connection to the natural world.

 

 

East Campus provides opportunities for students to stretch and grow. The staff, the programming, and the space itself facilitate students exploring, taking risks, and expanding their comfort zone. Collectively, students grow emotionally, socially, spiritually, and physically. The fun part is that you never know exactly how East Campus is going to impact a particular person; the process is individualized, dynamic, and exciting!

 

 

My literal favorite "part" of East Campus is the portion that is designated as the East Unit during Outdoor Pursuits. The memories built there by campers and staff are among my most cherished.  Every spring when I return to that space, I feel like I'm coming home.

 

 

East Campus is for me because the setting and people help me to connect with others in ways that transcend what I can do in a formal classroom or office.