Meet Erin Buenzli, the director of wellness and recreation. When student athletes arrived on campus this fall, familiar friends and new teammates greeted them. But their longtime athletic trainer was missing. In the past, one would find Buenzli, ever vigilant, waiting to help out anyone with a cramp, twist, sprain, break or pain. As of this year, however, Buenzli has assumed her new position at Lawrence as the Director of Wellness and Recreation.
Buenzli received her master’s degree from UW-Lacrosse in exercise science in 1998 after getting her bachelor’s degree in health promotion and athletic training. While her previous position as athletic trainer provided Buenzli with a connection with the athletes, along with some very long road trips, she is thrilled to be spending time as a spectator for more sporting events. According to Buenzli, “being a part of the athletic teams and the daily contact with the student athletes” is something she will truly miss. Her new role on campus entails promoting wellness on campus and working with students, faculty and staff to explore and understand what wellness means to them. Said Buenzli, “I will continue to use my athletic training skills with the Lawrence community.”
When asked about what the impact Buenzli has had in his life, Nick Thackston ‘12 said, “Ever since I met Erin freshman year she has been the best at caring for and teaching anyone who approaches her. I love going in the training room, not for care but to talk to her about ways to improve in my training and to absorb any other knowledge she has to offer.”
Buenzli has a wealth of knowledge, not just about athletic training, sports medicine and maintaining one’s health, but also about life. Her number one rule is that it is important to respect everyone. Without a doubt, the Lawrence community is fortunate to have her as a part of our staff.