Ronald Palmer Named SCCC Associate VP of Athletics

by Rachel Coleman

LIBERAL, Kan. — Seward County Community College has named Ronnie Palmer as Associate Vice President of Athletics, announced President Brad Bennett. The role expands upon the athletic director position, with an emphasis on the College’s forward momentum.

“SCCC is currently focused on growth across all departments, and recognizes athletics plays a valuable role for our campus and the community,” said Bennett. “Ronnie brings 27 years of athletic experience from community colleges to universities. It will be fun to watch him implement his vision and knowledge to help further improve our athletic department.”

For the past nine years, Palmer served as Athletic Director for Post University in Waterbury, Conn., leading their programs to higher levels of success at the NCAA DII level. Men’s soccer, men’s basketball, and baseball all made appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Making an impact in the classroom as well, Palmer promoted academics with his student-athletes and saw multiple athletes named valedictorian over the course of his time in Waterbury.

“Anytime you can be part of what is a transformational experience for student-athletes, that’s worth investing your time and energy,” said Palmer. “You can tell everyone at Seward is invested in the success of students.”

An alumnus of Davis and Elkins College, Elkins, W. Va., Palmer served as athletic director from 2010-15, overseeing 14 intercollegiate teams and departments. Prior experience included seven years on the field as a head baseball coach for Davis and Elkins, four years as head baseball coach at Salem Community College, Carney’s Point, N.J., and stints in California and Maryland.

Palmer received his Associate of Arts in General Studies from Hagerstown Community College before heading to Davis & Elkins for his Bachelor’s of Science in Physical Education and Health. He earned a Master’s of Education from American InterContinental University in 2005.

Bennett said Palmer is “finalizing his relocation plans, and will start working remotely in the next few weeks. He will be on campus the first part of August.”

The new head of Saints athletics is excited to step into the role — and to arrive on campus.

“I think the biggest thing that drew me here is the history of successes,” Palmer said. “The facilities are just gorgeous, and in the community, you can feel the passion surrounding the institution.”