Lawrence University announced on Mar. 12 the appointment of James M. Downer as its new Assistant Vice President for Athletics, bringing more than twenty years of experience in collegiate athletics administration to the institution.
The hiring is significant as Lawrence University continues to develop its athletics program and support student-athletes both academically and competitively. The university supports 24 NCAA Division III varsity teams in men’s and women’s sports, including baseball, basketball, fencing, soccer, and volleyball, according to the official website.
President Laurie A. Carter said, “With his record of success in athletics administration, James will be a valuable addition to Lawrence’s leadership team. His passion for the liberal arts and commitment to preparing student-athletes to thrive both in their sports and in the classroom will continue to strengthen our flourishing athletics program.”
Downer previously served as director of athletics at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania, where he led a Division I department with 25 varsity programs and about 600 student-athletes. During his tenure there, the program won ten Northeast Conference championships and received awards for academic achievement among student-athletes. He also held senior roles at Eastern Kentucky University and Presbyterian College, overseeing compliance, media relations, fundraising efforts, facility upgrades, and game operations.
Chris Clarke, vice president for student life at Lawrence University, said: “James brings a breadth and depth of experience that will benefit our Athletics program as we continue to move this department forward. Lawrence University has seen phenomenal growth in our Athletics program under President Carter’s tenure and James will be an outstanding addition to lead our staff and student-athletes to build on this foundation and make an impact on the Division III landscape. His leadership style, passion for collegiate athletics and comprehensive perspective will be crucial characteristics that will benefit our entire community.”
Downer expressed gratitude for his appointment: “I would like to sincerely thank President Carter and Chris Clarke for their belief and confidence in my leadership. I was drawn to this incredible opportunity at Lawrence University by the institution’s unwavering commitment and vision for academic and competitive excellence and, most importantly, striving to provide an exceptional student-athlete experience. I’m extremely excited to contribute to the proud championship tradition of Viking Athletics.” He is set to begin his role on April 13.
Lawrence University enrolls approximately 1,500 students with an 8:1 student-faculty ratio according to the official website. The private liberal arts college was established in Appleton, Wisconsin in the mid-19th century; it offers undergraduate programs through its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as well as its Conservatory of Music according to the official website. The university has been recognized as Wisconsin’s top small private university by U.S. News according to the official website.
The campus features facilities such as Ormsby Lake used for recreational activities like ice skating according to the official website, while promoting diversity initiatives through service opportunities according to the official website. Notable alumni include performer Audra McDonald among others according to the official website.
As Downer steps into his new position next month, observers expect continued growth within Lawrence University’s athletic programs alongside ongoing commitments toward academic excellence.
