Jo-Ann Nester, New Athletic Director, Settles In, Reviews Hawk Athletics

By: Brian Costain

Posted: 12/11/09

Jo-Ann Nester, St. Anselm College's new Athletic Director, sits behind her desk in the basement of the Carr Center. Her office is still rather bare, although students and faculty alike can begin to understand why after observing her schedule. "I like it here," she says of the Carr Center, "but I just wish I had time to unpack."

Nester is joining the St. Anselm Athletics community after stints in the athletic departments of small, liberal arts colleges as well as larger universities. "I found out about St. A's when I worked at Dartmouth," she explained. "When I saw the job opening [at St. Anselm], it made sense for all involved." Her most recent job as the Associate Director of Athletics for Florida Gulf Coast University, a school of over 10,000 students and faculty, saw her overseeing athletic com-

pliance, academic enrichment for athletes and student-athlete development. When asked about transitioning from a school of 10,000 to 2,000, Nester said, "I like this better. I'm pleased to be back at the 'small, rigorous academics' school. I value our academic reputation and the athletic emphasis."

During her time at FGCU, Nester experienced the university's move from Division 2 athletics to Division 1, and when questioned whether St. Anselm is ready for a similar transition, Nester seemed doubtful. "Based on budgets," she began, "we'd have to make a substantial financial commitment. I'm not sure St. A's is there. We have good facilities for D2, and good student-athletes who are good in class and successful on the field." She also made the distinction between the lifestyles of D1 athletes compared to D2's, explaining, "D2 athletes have an emphasis on balance. I've been in D1, and you're an athlete there. The world revolves around athletics at those institutions."

Vice President of Student Affairs Joe Horton, who announced to the college in an email on September 18th that Nester would serve as the Athletic Director, commented on her work ethic and focus. "Her energy and ex