Athletic director Ryan Shockey always has a smile and a joke for every Comet he encounters. In 2013, he joined The University of Olivet as head athletic trainer, and has served as athletic director since 2015. Ryan’s duty is to oversee all athletic operations, but he goes a step farther to build relationships with student-athletes. You can catch him supporting every team at sporting events during all seasons. In addition, Ryan makes a special point to welcome new students at Orientation each summer and he even serves on the Homecoming Committee to help ensure alumni enjoy returning to campus each fall.
Be sure to say hello and thank Ryan the next time you see him – his positive attitude is contagious.
Why do you love OC?
The University of Olivet is a special place for many reasons. I come to work every day because we get to help our students achieve their educational and athletic goals. There is nothing better than seeing the look on a student’s face when they experience success.
Why are you passionate about athletics?
Starting in the profession as an athletic trainer really helped me understand what college athletics is all about. It is about doing what is right for the student-athlete and being around them not only in their strongest moments, but also in their weakest. My passion comes from wanting to make our department better every day so that our student-athletes can compete and take pride in being a The University of Olivet Comet!
What is the average day in your job or what are some of your unique responsibilities?
Obviously as an administrator, I am involved in many of the day-to-day operations of the department, like paying bills and working with NCAA compliance. I also get to do fun things like traveling with our teams and being a part of the great things they are doing. It is a lot of fun to be around people who are enjoying success.
Why would you encourage students to attend OC?
At The University of Olivet, you will form a lifelong relationship with someone, whether it be a coach, teammate, professor or myself as an administrator. Our smaller size allows us to build those relationships with students and not just look at them as a number.
What do you look forward to in your role?
I enjoy attending as many of our sporting events as my schedule allows. Of course, every year I look forward to Homecoming, getting to connect with The University of Olivet alumni and hearing what made this place so special to them. I also look forward to and enjoy attending our yearly athletics awards banquet, the Ollies, where we recognize our student-athletes for their accomplishments both as athletes on the playing field and students in the classroom.
What is the number one piece of advice you share with students?
Your college experience will be whatever you make it. Get involved, build relationships and enjoy the four-year period in your life when you have very few responsibilities. Go on an international trip or do something outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself.
More about Ryan:
- Ryan’s favorite activity is spending time with his family including wife, Katherine, and three energetic daughters, Isabel, 8, Maeve, 5, and Emerie, 3.
- He holds a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Anderson University and a Master of Business Administration from the Indiana Institute of Technology.
- Before coming to The University of Olivet, Ryan served fellow MIAA member Trine University as head athletic trainer and adjunct instructor.
Schedule a campus visit to check out athletic opportunities at OC, and be sure to request to meet with a coach to get the inside scoop on the team you’re interested in. Contact the Office of Admissions to learn more at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.