Over the weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 54th Annual National Athletic Directors Conference in Orlando, Florida. This weekend was packed with enlightening workshops and three Leadership Training Courses that left a lasting impression on me.

In the first course on Saturday morning, I had the pleasure of meeting another Athletic Director from Mercy. During our break, we were encouraged to take a stroll and connect with someone in the class. In our brief interaction, we discussed the unique and rewarding experience of working within the Mercy Education System.

While I always enjoy the Leadership Training Courses, this year, two workshops stood out and had a profound impact on me. The first session introduced a fresh approach to Student Athlete Mental Health and Wellness, addressing the needs of both coaches and administration. The second session, led by one of my mentors in our section, was particularly rewarding. As we mingled and brainstormed, I saw many familiar faces in the room, emphasizing the strong sense of community.

These conferences always leave me re-energized with new ideas to bring back to our community. Just a few days before the conference, I successfully passed my Certified Athletic Administrator test and have already started working on my next certification. I feel grateful for the support from Mercy in helping me achieve my goals and furthering my professional development