Kelly Janos—A Force of Nature at Gassett Fitness Center

By Joshua Bebis on March 18, 2024 • ( Leave a comment )

Many individuals have been employed at Salem State University over the years, but few have left a special impact and legacy like Kelly Janos. Janos is the director of Campus Life and Recreation here at Salem State. Her responsibilities include overseeing a “comprehensive, campus-wide programming model that incorporates co-curricular and extracurricular engagement and recreational opportunities for the university community, working to ensure an active and engaged student body through regular programs and services.” She also manages the day-to-day operations of the Gassett Fitness Center, Wellness U, and well-being programs for university employees, providing opportunities that build community on our campus.

Janos, originally an Upstate New York native, attended Syracuse University and majored in Health & Exercise Science while being a track and cross-country star. Her love for sports grew stronger during her time at Syracuse as when she wasn’t tearing it up on the track, she was kicking back with friends—one who happened to be NBA legend Carmelo Anthony! Janos furthered her educated receiving a master’s degree at Syracuse in exercise science.

Over her work over the past decade at Salem State, Janos said, “Under my leadership, we have welcomed 700,000 visitors, offered 715 events, programed for 15,910 intramural participants, employed 700 students with 200 students in leadership positions, assisted 41,000 members, sponsored 281 programs with campus and community partners, provided group exercise classes for 32,000 participants and programed for more than 107,000 event attendees.” She has also been credited for launching the Esports Lounge and program here at Salem State in 2022. Janos, along with other employees, including the help of Program Coordinator Sean Conners, introduced high-end gaming PCs, consoles, and custom graphics to students.

Conners had nothing but praise to say when asked about his superior. He stated, “Kelly leads the Campus Life admin team that I am now a part of, and we wouldn’t want anyone else steering the ship. She leads by example as one of the hardest-working and most diligent staff members on campus. The way she prioritizes and organizes her work while balancing personal life responsibilities is something I’ve learned a lot from in a short time. Kelly cares deeply about personal relationships, and I have never seen her quit on someone, no matter how difficult the situation. It can be easy in this work to get sidetracked and forget what’s most important, but Kelly is always focused on the growth and sustainability of student life programming, in turn making the Salem State student experience happier, healthier, and one that prepares our graduates for life after college.”

Salem State senior Joesph Carey voiced his opinion on the director as well, saying, “If every company or business had someone like Kelly Janos running their operation, I can promise you every company or business would be successful.” Janos stated, “I am so thankful that I have found a position doing work that I love every day. I get to work with an amazing team of students and administrators that make my work very rewarding. I am challenged in my position and thankful for the impact I have been able to have on our campus community thanks to the support of many people. Salem State is a special community and one I am fortunate to be a part of!”