WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. (August 14, 2024) – Williams College Athletic Director Lisa Melendy announced today the promotion of one staff member and the hiring of two staff members as the initial steps in the reorganization of the Williams College Department of Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation, following an Operational Review by Collegiate Consulting.
Stated Melendy, “beginning this academic year, the department will transition to a sports supervisor model that will enhance support for student athletes and coaches. Additionally, we endeavor to increase the efficiency of administrative work as we strive to achieve our multifaceted goals.”
Prior to their announcement, Collegiate Consulting had completed a comprehensive Intercollegiate Athletics Operational Review for Williams College. The focus of the study was to serve as a complementary element to the department’s External Review Report and provide a comprehensive assessment of intercollegiate athletics. The final report provided actionable and prioritized action items incorporating the findings and best practices, which were in alignment with the College’s institutional strategic plan.
As part of the comprehensive analysis, Collegiate Consulting interviewed more than seventy-five stakeholders, including institutional, athletic, student, community, and alumni participants. Each department within intercollegiate athletics as well as coaches for all thirty-two sports programs provided feedback. In addition, Collegiate Consulting met with the president’s office, admissions, financial aid, advancement, physical education, provost, and student life.
The 130-page final assessment included analyses and recommendations for the organizational and reporting structure; departmental/individual roles and responsibilities; student-athlete recruitment, welfare and retention; internal/external communications; and the overall student-athlete experience.
Founded in 1793, Williams College sponsors 32 NCAA Division III sports program, and is a founding member (1971) of the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). Approximately 35% of William’s 2,100 students participate in intercollegiate athletics. Since the inception of the Learfield Director’s Cup following the 1995-96 athletic year, which measures comprehensive competitive athletic success, Williams has won the DIII Director’s Cup 22 times, including thirteen consecutive years.
Collegiate Consulting is a full-service intercollegiate athletic consulting firm based in Atlanta. Over the last two years, Collegiate Consulting has completed operational studies for Williams College, Franciscan University, Ramapo College, and College of Coastal Georgia.