News from Grand Valley State University
President Philomena V. Mantella and Director of Athletics Keri Becker are joined by officials from the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics for a trophy presentation.

Becker earns second national honor for athletics leadership

GVSU’s Director of Athletics Keri Becker continues to draw national attention for her leadership, vision and dedication to the Lakers’ athletic department. 

Earlier this month, Women Leaders in Sports selected Becker as one of its seven Nike Executives of the Year. The honor recognizes women in senior-level executive positions who have made significant contributions to their organizations and the sports industry.

It’s the second national honor Becker has received this year. In March, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics named Becker as a recipient of its Athletics Directors of the Year award.

According to the NACDA website, the annual award “highlights the efforts of athletics directors at all levels for their commitment and positive contributions to student athletes, campuses and their surrounding communities.”

Becker, who was named director of athletics in 2016, has overseen sustained success across Grand Valley’s athletic programs. Laker teams have won 15 national championships during her tenure, including the most recent titles by the men’s outdoor track and field team and the women’s basketball team, which defended its national championship.

The Lakers’ overall success earned them their 32nd Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Presidents’ Cup and their 18th Learfield Directors’ Cup, a Division II record. 

Under her leadership, Grand Valley’s athletic facilities have also undergone significant growth. Additions include the Jamie Hosford Football Center, a new indoor practice golf facility and an expansion of the Fieldhouse Arena that houses the men’s and women’s wrestling programs.

The new construction also includes a 4000-square-foot weight room, training room, student athlete lounge and refueling hub and the new home for the Laker Academic Success Center. 

Recent renovations to the Fieldhouse Arena added suites and premium seating for fans. An indoor hitting facility and new locker rooms for the baseball and softball programs were also completed this summer.

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