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Jessilyn Rich
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Kelly Janos has been an integral part of Salem State since joining the community in 2013 when she became the Director of Campus Life and Recreation. Kelly’s passion for fitness, wellness, and student engagement has played a pivotal role in helping her to shape the campus culture through diverse programs and events designed to enrich the lives of students, faculty, and staff.
Kelly’s journey into campus recreation was shaped by her academic background and hands-on experience in the world of fitness. A graduate of Syracuse University, Kelly earned both her B.S. and M.S. degrees in health and exercise science. During her time at Syracuse, she was a member of the varsity cross country and indoor and outdoor track & field teams.
While navigating her career path, Kelly’s experiences were as varied as they were enriching. She worked as a research assistant, personal trainer, class instructor, and served as the Student Director of the faculty/staff fitness center. Her experience also included lecturing as a Personal Training Certification Instructor and interning at SC Johnson. Though Kelly initially planned to pursue a career in physical therapy, a job posting for a fitness coordinator at Longwood University in Farmville, VA, changed the trajectory of her career. The role combined her diverse interests and led her to the field of campus recreation, where she found her true calling in higher education.
Since joining Salem State in July 2013, Kelly has worked tirelessly to develop and oversee a comprehensive fitness and recreation program with responsibilities within fitness, wellness, intramural sports, esports and outdoor programming areas. Under her leadership, the Gassett Fitness Center and Wellness U programs have flourished, impacting thousands of students and employees.
One of her proudest achievements was the opening of the Gassett
Fitness Center in 2013, a key milestone in Salem State’s commitment to student health and wellness. She also played a central role in launching the university’s esports program, which included the creation of an esports lounge. Since the program’s inception in 2022, it has gained momentum, offering students new opportunities to engage in competitive gaming and community-building.
Kelly’s team has made a significant impact on campus life, with more than 800,000 visitors, 20,000 intramural participants, and 120,000 event attendees. Her leadership has fostered a culture of inclusivity and community, exemplified by the countless programs and events offered annually.
Kelly’s favorite part of her job is creating unique and innovative programs that engage students and staff. She is especially proud of the sense of community she and her team have cultivated through their diverse offerings. “The Campus Life and Recreation team is small but mighty, we offer more than 100 programs and events every year for our campus community.” Kelly says, highlighting the dedication of the department’s staff to making a lasting impact on campus life.
Reflecting on her journey, Kelly is grateful for the countless students and colleagues who have shaped her career. “The people I have met throughout my career have impacted my life in countless ways,” she shares. “I am grateful for our students, past and present, that have impacted my life and can’t thank them enough for bringing me so much joy in a job I’m so thankful to have.”
Kelly’s advice for students is rooted in compassion and encouragement. “There are so many people at Salem State that are here for you and believe in you!” she says. “You are on your own unique journey. Don’t compare yourself to others. It may take some longer than others to earn their degree, but the important part is to start what you’ve finished and ask for help if you need it! 'I can and I will!'”
When Kelly isn’t making a difference at Salem State, she’s enjoying
quality time with her family. Together with her husband and two young children, Coley (7) and Camden (5), Kelly enjoys embarking on new adventures, whether it’s a trip to the beach or exploring the great outdoors. In addition to family time, Kelly is an avid reader and a runner—though she admits she’s more likely to lace up her sneakers when the weather is warm and sunny!