Latham Named OCAA Administrator of the Year

The Loyalist College community is proud to announce that Cristy Latham, Director of Athletics and Recreation, has been named the 2025–2026 Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) Administrator of the Year. This provincial recognition honours Cristy's outstanding leadership and her lasting impact on student‑athletes, coaches, and the overall growth of Lancer Athletics.

Since taking on her role, Cristy has guided the continued evolution of Loyalist's varsity programs, placing a strong emphasis on supporting student‑athletes in all areas of their development. Through enhanced strength and conditioning expectations, increased access to nutrition and academic supports, and a more holistic approach to athlete well‑being, she has helped foster an environment where students are positioned to succeed both in sport and in the classroom.

Under her leadership, the 2025–2026 season became one of the most successful in Lancer history. Both the men's and women's basketball teams advanced to the OCAA Final Four Provincial Championships for the first time, while the men's volleyball team reached the quarterfinal round for the first time in over a decade. The women's soccer program also continued its upward momentum, laying a strong foundation for future success.

A defining pillar of Cristy's leadership is her unwavering commitment to academic excellence. She has cultivated a culture where student‑athletes are truly students first, reinforcing expectations that prioritize education alongside athletic performance. As a result, 60 of 89 student‑athletes earned Dean's List distinction and OCAA All‑Academic recognition, while the collective varsity average reached 79.96%, the highest in program history. Twenty‑six student‑athletes achieved averages of 90% or higher, reflecting the consistent academic standard embraced across Lancers programs.

Beyond competition, Cristy has played a key role in strengthening athlete safety and campus culture through the continued implementation of Safe Sport practices, leadership programming, and initiatives designed to connect student‑athletes across teams. She has also expanded athlete development through onboarding and transition supports that help students feel confident entering, and prepared to leave, the varsity environment.

Cristy's impact extends into the broader community through youth leadership initiatives and ongoing involvement in provincial and community‑based organizations. Known for her open‑door approach and genuine care for individuals, she is a visible and trusted presence within the Lancer community, setting high standards while empowering those around her.

This recognition as OCAA Administrator of the Year reflects Cristy Latham's dedication, vision, and the lasting culture of excellence she continues to build at Loyalist College.

Congratulations, Cristy, on this well‑deserved honour.