Union College is Revolutionizing Student Activities with RecRe

At Union College, student engagement is evolving. The traditional model of scheduled programming and large-scale events is giving way to flexible, on-demand experiences that meet students where they are. Thanks to RecRe’s automated lending platform, students now have around-the-clock access to high-value gear, creating new opportunities for spontaneous fun, small-group activities, and meaningful peer interactions.

Meeting Students on Their Terms

As student expectations shift, institutions must adapt. Union College recognized this early and took a forward-thinking approach by bringing RecRe’s self-service rental system to campus. The initiative, spearheaded by Student Affairs in collaboration with Student Government, allowed students to vote on which items would be stocked in the lockers. The result? A diverse collection of recreational gear, ranging from a Nintendo Switch and Oculus VR system to Spikeball, Bluetooth speakers, and Nerf footballs—all available for free on a first-come, first-served basis.

“RecRe creates an opportunity for students to engage on their own schedule at a time they select,” said Emily Rocha, Director of Student Activities at Union College. “Students seem to desire opportunities for small group activities that they do rather than attend.”

A New Standard for Campus Engagement

Since its implementation in March 2023 at the Reamer Campus Center, RecRe has quickly become a staple of student life at Union College. Data from student usage reports highlight RecRe’s impact:

• 🎮 7,500+ hours of student engagement enabled.
• 💰 $16,800 in student savings by enabling free Oculus Quest rentals for students.
• ✅ 100% of rentals returned—showcasing the built-in accountability that allows Union to invest in high-value items with confidence.

Matt Milless, AVP of Student Engagement, praised the addition of RecRe, stating, “Students are engaging with peers and their institution differently now, and we want to be sure we’re meeting them where they are by providing innovative, passive opportunities for programming and engagement. RecRe has been a perfect addition to our community to fit that need.”

Student Reactions: “Dope experience.”

The student response to RecRe at Union College has been overwhelmingly positive. Feedback through our web app highlights how RecRe fills a gap in traditional programming, providing a much-needed resource for students looking for independent or small-group entertainment:

• ⭐ “Great experience, had so much fun.”
• 🎉 “Dope experience.”
• 🙌 “Super grateful to have this. Thank you!”
• 🎯 “Easier than I thought it would be.”

Union’s approach demonstrates that passive programming can be just as impactful as structured events. By giving students autonomy over their engagement, the college has created a model that fosters organic, peer-driven experiences that fit seamlessly into their lives.

Looking Ahead

Union College’s partnership with RecRe is proving to be a blueprint for the future of student engagement. By leveraging automation and self-service access, Union is empowering students to take charge of their own recreation and social experiences. With RecRe, the institution is bridging gaps in engagement, fostering new ways for students to connect, and redefining what it means to provide inclusive, flexible, and student-driven programming.

Want to bring this level of engagement to your campus? Learn more about RecRe here.