D'Youville University Celebrates Leadership Roles in National Organizations

D’Youville University is proud to announce that President Lorrie Clemo, Ph.D. and Ona Halladay, Vice President for Athletics and Planning, have been appointed to key leadership roles within the East Coast Conference (ECC), the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Dr. Clemo has been selected to serve on the Presidents Council Executive Board for a second term as the chair within the East Coast Conference. Underscoring her dedication to promoting academic excellence and athletic integrity within the conference, Dr. Clemo will continue to be instrumental in shaping the future direction of the ECC and fostering collaboration among member institutions.

Additionally, Dr. Clemo was selected to represent the East Coast Conference in the NCAA Division II Think Tank. The Think Tank is a group comprised of administrative, coaching, and student leaders from across Division II. Tasked with exploring and addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within Division II athletics, The Think Tank plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Division II athletics by developing forward-thinking strategies that prioritize student-athlete welfare, academic success, and competitive excellence.

“As new members of NCAA Division II athletics, it is a privilege to hold such important roles within the NCAA and ECC’ said Dr. Lorrie Clemo. “Division II has incredibly engaged leaders across the country and D’Youville University is proud to be able to support the national conversation while pushing collegiate athletics forward in a positive fashion.”

Ona Halladay will also be adding to these efforts having been appointed to the to D2 ADA Board of Directors as the East Coast Conference representative for NACDA. In her role, she will support the continued work of ensuring a strong voice and representation at the national level within the NCAA. Committed to the continued development of best practices within collegiate athletics, D2 ADA aims to enhance the student athlete experience through strategic engagement and planning to strengthen the impact of division II administrators.

“Ona is an exemplary coach, athletic administrator, and university visionary,” continued Clemo. “This appointment reflects her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of student athletes and collegiate athletics as a whole. I am excited for her to share these talents throughout the NCAA and offer insights that have promoted the success of our Saints.”

Dr. Clemo’s role with the ECC Presidents Council Executive Board began June 1, 2024 while Ona Halladay assumed her role with NACDA on August 1, 2024. The Division II Think Tank is scheduled to take place on September 16-17, 2024 at the NCAA Office in Indianapolis, Indiana.