Yovich Named New Director of Athletics

Previously, Yovich was the Sports Information Director at Christian Brothers University Rudy Yovich became part of the storied in Memphis, Tenn., from 2002 – 03 and held the position of Sales and Marketing history of the Owens Community College Director for the Erie Otters of the in Erie, Pa., from 1999 – 2000. He was a former television Sports Anchor/Reporter at WSEE-TV CBS in Erie Express when he was named the Director from 1989 – 93. of Athletics in September 2011. His professional involvement includes membership with the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA), the Writers The sports broadcaster turned college administrator has moved up the ranks in his Association and the National College Writers Association. career to become a director. At Owens, Yovich has been instrumental in two key initiatives in moving the Owens “I am honored to be working at Owens Community College and with the Office of Express forward. Athletics team,” he said. “I look forward to further building upon the outstanding reputation and success of our student-athletes and athletic programs.” He collaborated with the Owens Community College Foundation and Alumni Association and launched the Owens Express Athletic Fund, which will be the primary The Express enjoy a rich history; entering the 2012 spring sports , their means by which private funds will be raised for the athletic department. accomplishments included two national championships and more than 100 academic and athletic NJCAA All-Americans. He also launched a new website (www.owensexpress.com) and upgraded the department’s social media pages. The website also includes an apparel-ordering Yovich succeeded Michael Rickard, who died unexpectedly in December 2010. feature for Express fans.

“Rudy brings extensive knowledge and experience in intercollegiate athletics from a “In today’s era of instant information, we felt it was important to provide our fans with leadership perspective that is invaluable as we advance our longstanding tradition of the most current information possible regarding Owens Express athletics,” he said. academic and athletic excellence in the classroom and on the playing field,” said Chris “Owens Community College has a great story to tell and this is just another way to Giordano, Owens Dean of Student Life. communicate that message.

Yovich came to Owens from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) “We have one of the finest community college athletic departments in the country, in Fort Wayne, Ind., where he served as the Assistant Athletic Director/Media Services with our coaches, support staff, facilities and success in the classroom and in from 2003 – 2011. competition,” he said. “The new website will only add to our ability to recruit quality student-athletes to Owens Community College.” While with IPFW, he was responsible for the overall operation of the Athletic Media Services Department for the academic institution’s 16 NCAA Division I programs. Yovich Yovich holds a master’s degree in business administration-sport management from served as the primary contact for men’s basketball and baseball and also had sport Columbia Southern University and a bachelor’s degree in communications studies oversight for cross country and track programs, as well as the pep band. Additionally, from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Timera, have two children, he was the play-by-play voice for the IPFW men’s basketball and baseball teams. Nicholas and Lauren. 5