Mroz & Fortin Named Co-Faculty Athletics Representatives (FAR)

BOSTON, Mass.  – The Emmanuel College Athletic Department is excited to name Dr. Kathleen Mroz and Dr. Jeffrey Fortin as Co-Faculty Athletics Representatives (FAR), as announced earlier this month by Interim Athletic Director Marc Taney. Mroz and Fortin fill this role in collaboration with the NCAA and will begin working immediately in partnership with EC Athletics to enhance the student-athlete experience in the classroom, community and team settings.

Faculty Athletics Representatives play a central role in a Division III intercollegiate athletics program, working closely with the director of athletics and institutional leadership to support a campus environment where athletics is maintained as a vital component of the educational program and student-athletes constitute an integral part of the student body.

"Sports are a big part of my life and my research, and I am excited to learn more about the amazing student-athletes we have at Emmanuel," said Mroz. "I hope to help students work toward achieving their academic and athletic goals in ways that prioritize their mental and physical health, and their passion and love for what they do."

Mroz, an Assistant Professor of Theology & Religious Studies at Emmanuel, enjoys running and competing in triathlons.

"I'm excited to work with and support our student-athletes as they navigate the challenges of succeeding in the field and in the classroom," said Dr. Fortin.  "As a competitive athlete for most of my life, I believe I can connect with our student athletes in unique ways that ensure they find success in their studies and career goals.  Athletics is an important part of campus life and school spirit, and I hope to help expand fan support for our student-athletes among the broader general student population."

Fortin, the Chair of the History Department and Associate Professor of History at Emmanuel, grew up as an avid hockey player.

"Dr. Fortin and Dr. Mroz will be great in this role given their passion for education and shared interest in the ever-changing landscape of college athletics," said Taney.  "They each bring a wealth of experience from the classroom and we're pleased to have two educators with different backgrounds taking on a critical role at the College to aid in building a bridge between our student-athletes and their instructors, while also becoming integral liaisons for our athletics staff."

Division III is a leader in supporting the role of the faculty athletics representative (FAR) in governance, strategic planning, establishing academic standards, and, most importantly, advocating for student-athletes. Because faculty athletics representatives are such a vital link in any Division III institution's strategic communications chain, FARs can help explain in a positive manner the complex relationship between intercollegiate athletics and higher education.

"We are very fortunate to have not one, but two dedicated individuals take on the role of FAR at Emmanuel," said Senior Assistant Athletic Director Dan Campagna. "For every NCAA institution, the faculty representative plays a critical role in bridging academics and athletics.  We're thankful that Dr. Fortin and Dr. Mroz accepted their appointments eager and excited to advocate for our student-athletes. Having the faculty voice as a part of decisions related to athletics is vital, especially at a competitive Division III institution like Emmanuel."

For more information on Emmanuel Athletics visit www.goECSaints.com