Several factors led to Jonny Solma being hired as Viterbo’s recreation program coordinator at Viterbo University in the fall of 2022, but the most important was simply perfect timing.

“My wife had accepted a counseling services therapist position at Winona State University and we were moving to the area,” said Solma, who earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in sports management from Minnesota State University. “Right before we moved, the job opportunity at Viterbo was posted. It all just lined up.”

Solma is very happy it did. He is now the director of Campus Recreation, Engagement, and Wellbeing (CREW) in the student life division. The job involves managing Viterbo’s rec sports and wellness programs, the Amie L. Mathy Center for Recreation and Education facility, and supervising a staff that includes up to 30 student workers.

“Participating in rec sports provides students with improved physical and mental health, social skills, leadership skills, and allows them to build connections and community with other students across campus,” Solma said. “But our mission is to provide other health and wellness opportunities as well, such as self-defense classes, pet therapy, and Weekends at VU programming.”

The Mathy Center is certainly a busy place, with more than 22,000 student and ---- employee visits last year. More than 60 students played intermural volleyball this past fall, and pickleball is popular with both students and employees.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Solma’s career is working with students, and the leadership and personal growth opportunities his department provides them.

“The students are our ‘why,’ he said. “Our student staff is a significant part of my job, and the career competencies and transferable skills they learn will set them up for success at Viterbo and beyond.”

Away from work, Solma and his wife are the parents of three children that keep them very busy. He coaches his eldest in hockey, football, and baseball.

“I’ve loved sports my whole life,” he said.