Judy Smith, NSAC Athletics Director and Dean of Student Services, was recently named 2007-2008 CCAA Athletic Director of the Year by the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA). The award is designed to honour intercollegiate directors of athletics for their commitment and administrative excellence within the campus or collegiate community environment. Judy received her award at this year’s AGM on June 11th in Gatineau, QC.

The award was no surprise to Judy’s co-workers. “I have never encountered a harder working individual than Judy. She spends many countless and unselfish hours in her role as Athletic Director and Dean of Student Services. Every time you think she has far too much on her plate, she always gets the job done,” said a member of the NSAC Athletics staff.

Judy has made a huge impact in college sport administration in Canada. During the past 33 years, she has sat on the CCAA Board and Executive in a variety of portfolios and has excelled at every level. As CCAA Basketball Convenor, CCAA Women’s Development Committee member, CCAA V.P. of Programs, CCAA V.P. of Governance, CCAA President, CCAA Past President and ACAA/CCAA Board member it is understandable why she has been described as a “knowledge centre”.

Since 1994, Judy has guided NSAC in hosting 9 of the 12 CCAA National Championships hosted at NSAC. Each one was administered by Judy, and all of which have met and exceeded the quality expected of a CCAA National Championship.

“It is an honor to receive this national award and I accept it on behalf of the athletics department staff,” said Judy Smith. “NSAC athletics has hosted an impressive twelve national championships. This would have been impossible without them. This award is a reflection of their hard work and dedication,” continued Judy.

Judy has been involved with the CCAA in a variety of positions since 1978 and is currently a host and board member. Judy’s leadership at NSAC and her community has been exemplary whether it is on the national stage, provincial or local stage.

“The values and ethics espoused by Judy provide a template of respect in sports and for all those who choose to participate. The program which she has maintained at NSAC is a model which a new athletic director would de well to consider,” said Glenn Ruiter, VP of Governance for the CCAA.