A remarkable year for Berry athletics continued in October with Dr. Angel Mason’s recognition at the Women Leaders in College Sports National Convention as Nike Executive of the Year for NCAA Division III Colleges.
She was one of only eight women nationwide chosen for these peer-nominated awards, which honor contributions made by senior-level administrators in each of the various divisions of the NCAA and other major college sports associations.
“In the 50th anniversary of Title IX, we are thrilled to celebrate this group of exemplary women who are blazing trails in the industry of college sports,” said Patti Phillips, Women Leaders’ CEO.
Mason’s recognition honors service in 2021-22, a year in which Berry made history by claiming the Southern Athletic Association Commissioner’s Cup as the conference’s top program, a first for the college in the DIII era.
That accomplishment is just one measure of success during Mason’s tenure as director of athletics. Since arriving on campus in 2019, the veteran coach, administrator and former DI basketball player at Indiana’s Butler University has helped Berry’s student-athletes and coaches reach new heights in the SAA and DIII – all while navigating the challenges of two COVID-shortened competition years.
Highlights at Berry during her first three years on campus included 17 conference championships and unprecedented national tournament runs in softball and volleyball, among many notable achievements.
Mason also has distinguished herself at the national level through service to the NCAA and other organizations.
“Because I work for an institution that shares my values, I am empowered to serve daily,” she said. “I am a part of an incredible team that allows me to continue to fill my cup by mentoring and investing in our students and staff, with underrepresented groups, and within our profession.”
