Jeffrey Ryder

Jeff Ryder began his role as Columbia University’s Director of Physical Education and Recreation Associate in Physical Education on September 1, 2017.

"Jeff will be a wonderful addition to the Physical Education and Recreation staff,” Senior Associate Athletics Director Jacqueline Blackett said. “His background provides an opportunity for increased emphasis in recreation and general campus wellness." 

Ryder arrives in Morningside Heights after spending the previous eight years with CENTERS, LLC at the University of New Haven in several different capacities including the Assistant Director for Student Development and Activities, the Interim Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness and most recently as its Senior Assistant Director for Recreation and Competitive Sports. During his tenure, Ryder had full responsibility for operating budgets, developing marketing standards, staff recruitment, training and assessment, in addition to oversight of the fitness and wellness programs, intramural sports, club sports and open recreational programs.

Ryder’s staff collaborated with campus partners on fitness and recreation initiatives. A member of several campus-wide committees, he has also worked closely with the University community by administering programming that focused on the University’s six core competencies: leadership, communication, resiliency, global and cultural awareness, critical thinking and teamwork.

Prior to his tenure in New Haven, Ryder served as the Interim Coordinator of Intramural and Club Sports at Indiana University-South Bend. He also served nearly two years as a Graduate Assistant in the Campus Recreation department at Minnesota State University, Mankato (2006-08).

A Medford, N.J. native, Ryder earned his bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Business Economics from Rutgers University in 2006. He went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Sports Management from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2008.

He relocated to New York City with his wife Allison.