Lord and Fontaine Appointed First and Second Vice President
The Empire 8 Athletic Conference is proud to announce it's new First and Second Vice Presidents for the next two academic years.
H. 'Skip' Lord, the Executive Director of Athletics at Houghton College will begin his term as first Vice President, having served Empire 8 as the second VP for the last two years academic years along side outgoing VP Kim Fierke, Hartwick College Director Athletics.
"Kim has been a tremendous asset for Empire 8 during her tenure as vice-president," said Chuck Mitrano, Commissioner of the Empire 8 Athletic Conference. "She has played an integral role in the leadership team and we appreciate her service."
Under Lord's direction, the athletics program at Houghton College transitioned from NAIA to NCAA Division III, he increased the department's sports offering and spearheaded a facility project that exceeded $12 millon.
Lord has been recognized on numerous occasions for his leadership. In 2002 and 2008 Lord was named one of four winners in the NAIA Athletic Director of the Year Award, given by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics. He has twice been named Northeast Region Male Administrator of the Year, is a three-time conference administrator of the year, and was named 1999-2000 NAIA Region IX Athletics Director of the Year.
"I am looking forward to continuing to serve the amazing student-athletes and educational professionals of the Empire 8," stated Lord. "This is a special group of people. It’s an honor and privilege to be part of the exciting things they are doing."
Utica College Director of Physical Education and Athletics
David Fontaine was elected as the new second Vice President by his peers.
"I am honored to be appointed the second VP of the Empire 8 and I'm looking forward to assisting the conference in whatever ways I can," said Fontaine.
Fontain has an extenstive background in athletics as he is a former Utica student-athlete, head coach and administrator. He was appointed Director in January 2012 and puts great focus on ensuring a high quality experience for student-athletes.
In his few years as Director, Fontaine and UC have hosted several E8 Tournaments, the field hockey team has won three conference titles, the men's outdoor track and field team have won two titles and several track and field athletes have qualified for nationals.
We are excited to have Dave join the leadership team," said Mitrano. "He is highly respected by his peers and will be a great asset for the next four years."