EDISON, NJ –  The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) concluded its winter in-person meetings in New York City this week, embarking on a robust and inclusive strategic planning process to guide the conference in the ever-evolving world of intercollegiate athletics. The Council of Presidents and Directors of Athletics of all 11 member schools discussed the elements of the strategic planning process and began important discussions to chart the vision for the Conference's future.

"The intercollegiate athletics landscape is in an unprecedented time of transformation, and the MAAC Council of Presidents is tackling these fundamental changes with openness, creativity, and awareness of how policy and market changes may impact our schools," said MAAC Commissioner Travis Tellitocci, who began his tenure in May. "The presidents are unwavering in their commitment to academic and athletic excellence as they plan for the future of the MAAC amidst the changing Division I landscape."

The Strategic Planning Committee is chaired by Dr. Mark Nemec, President of Fairfield University and includes President Steve Stoute of Canisius University, President Milo Riverso of Manhattan College and John D'Argenio, Vice President & Director of Athletics at Siena College. The Committee will be informed in its work by consultation with administrators, coaches, student-athletes and alumni from the MAAC member schools.

"As a conference, we must be aggressive in positioning our teams to thrive as we pursue our collective mission. We must support our student-athletes' competitive success, while prioritizing academic excellence among our member schools, along with support for the physical and emotional health of our student-athletes," said Dr. Judy Olian, President of Quinnipiac University and the Chair of the MAAC Council of Presidents. "We thank President Nemec and the Strategic Planning Committee for their focused efforts in planning for the future of the MAAC, and we look forward to their recommendations."

The Council of Presidents also discussed membership standards and along with the Directors of Athletics, heard from the NCAA Sports Science Institute on the NCAA's physical mental wellness priorities with a particular focus on mental health.