Florida Tech Athletics Announces Promotions and Supervisory Oversight Changes
By Space Coast Daily // June 8, 2024
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BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – Jamie Joss, Florida Tech‘s Director of Athletics, announced a restructuring within the Florida Tech Athletics Department, promoting three staff members to fortify the support structure, expand leadership roles, and foster more robust communication and organizational vertical leadership within the department.
“As we continuously strive to enhance our staff and scholar-athlete experience at Florida Tech, we are excited to announce a strategic restructuring within the Athletics Department.”
“Promoting these three dedicated staff members is a pivotal step forward for Florida Tech Athletics, allowing my ability to focus more of my time on corporate and individual philanthropic engagement to provide expanded resources to develop our athletes into scholars, champions, and leaders to exceed expectations academically, competitively, and in our community.”
Jen Mercurio will transition from her role as Associate Athletic Director for NCAA Compliance and Scholar-Athlete Services/Senior Women Administrator to the role of Deputy Athletic Director.
In her new role, she will take on sports supervision for women’s soccer, softball, men’s rowing, and men’s and women’s swimming. Mercurio will continue to oversee NCAA Compliance and Scholar-Athlete Services. Mercurio will also continue to serve as the Senior Woman Administrator, representing Florida Tech on various conference committees and helping to provide oversight and support for Title IX and gender equity initiatives.
“Jen’s transition to Deputy Athletic Director is a testament to her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to our organization, and leadership within our Sunshine State Conference. Jen will undoubtedly excel in her new responsibilities, providing invaluable support and supervision to our athletic programs while continuing her vital work in compliance and scholar-athlete support, and as Senior Woman Administrator, underscoring her commitment to excellence and equity, ensuring Florida Tech continues to lead with integrity and inclusivity. Jen’s contributions are a cornerstone of our success, and we look forward to her continued impact in this expanded role.”
Tara Van Ness, the Associate Athletic Director for Business Operations, has been promoted to Senior Associate Athletic Director. Van Ness will continue to oversee Florida Tech Athletics’ Business Operations and will supervise volleyball, baseball, and men’s cross country and track.”
“Tara’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in propelling Florida Tech Athletics to new heights, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements and look forward to witnessing her continued success in this expanded role. Her expertise in Business Operations has ensured the smooth functioning of the department, and her expanded role as sports supervisor demonstrates our immense trust in her abilities and confidence that her passion, strategic thinking, and unwavering support will empower our scholar-athletes and staff to reach their full potential.
Associate Athletic Director for Athletic Communications Christina Hardman will expand her role within the department, moving into the role of Associate Athletic Director for External Operations. She will directly oversee Florida Tech’s Athletic Communications department, Game Operations, and Promotions and Community Engagement.”
“Christina is perfectly positioned to spearhead this new role, and it reflects the progression of her continuous learning and achievement, combined with her strategic vision and commitment to excellence, which will undoubtedly elevate these areas and further enhance the scholar-athlete experience.
“The synergy between athletic communications, Game Operations, Promotions, and Community Engagement is undeniable. Christina’s deep understanding of each area and strategic vision make her uniquely qualified to oversee these interconnected functions.”
“Her expertise in communication will ensure that Florida Tech Athletics maintains a solid and positive presence both on and off campus, her knowledge of game operations will guarantee seamless and efficient event execution, and her passion for community engagement will foster meaningful connections with fans and supporters, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere and strengthen the bond between Florida Tech Athletics and the surrounding community, fostering an atmosphere of support and collaboration.”
“This strategic restructuring reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in elevating support and leadership within the department. We are confident that Jen, Tara, and Christina will excel in their expanded roles, driving our mission forward with integrity, inclusivity, and excellence.”
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