Liz Dennison, Deputy Athletic Director at Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS), joins the 2026-27 NCAA Pathway Program, a selective initiative aimed at preparing senior athletics administrators for roles as athletic directors or conference commissioners. She has been a part of HWS's leadership team since November 2021 and will play significant roles in facility management and oversight of varsity teams. The program includes mentorship from industry leaders and focuses on developing key skills in budgeting, strategic planning, and fundraising. Dennison's participation signifies a commitment to professional growth in collegiate athletics.

By the Numbers
  • One of 21 administrators selected nationwide for the 2026-27 NCAA Pathway Program.
  • 26% of program alumni have become directors of athletics or conference commissioners in the past five years.
State of Play
  • The cohort met for a weeklong educational session in Indianapolis this week.
  • Participants will reconvene in October for additional development sessions.
What's Next

The Pathway Program will continue to provide structured mentorship and leadership training. Participants, including Dennison, will focus on emerging issues in collegiate athletics, with the program concluding at the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics convention in Orlando in 2027.

Bottom Line

Dennison's selection for the NCAA Pathway Program underscores her professional trajectory and HWS's commitment to nurturing leadership in collegiate sports, potentially impacting administrative roles in the future.