WASHINGTON – Bringing in 12 years of experience in higher education, Patty Medina has been named American University's Associate Athletics Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging as announced by Director of Athletics and Recreation, Dr Billy Walker. This position was created just over three years ago, and Medina is the second person to fill the role.
"I can't adequately express my excitement to have Patty join our Athletics Department family," said Walker. "Patty brings a wealth of experience and a host of ideas to make our department even more inclusive. Her passion to work with our student-athletes is evident, and she will ensure our coaches and staff are included in our progress. I can't wait to start working with Patty."
Medina comes to AU from Harford Community College in Bel Air, Md., where she was the Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Development and DEI Engagement for the past three years.
While at Harford, Medina was responsible for creating and implementing Diversity, Inclusion, Culture and Equity (DICE) programming, curriculum, and activities. She designed and conducted diversity and inclusion training programs for coaches, staff, and student-athletes to enhance cultural competence and promote inclusive practices.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Associate Athletics Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at American University," said Medina. "I'm excited to champion a culture where everyone's story is heard and valued, and to continue to promote a community where diversity thrives and inclusion is a daily practice.
"I want to thank Dr. Walker for entrusting me with this role. His support is the foundation for fostering positive change within our athletics community."
Medina also took the lead for operations, planning and execution of a comprehensive student-athlete development program for student-athletes including student-athlete orientation, General Studies courses, leadership programming, life skills, career development, and transition to life after sport.
Past experience for Medina includes coaching women's basketball, serving as director of operations, teaching and being an assistant athletics director, with recent stops at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School in Essex, Md. as Assistant AD, and as a women's basketball coach at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio.
Medina is a 2008 graduate of San Diego State University with a bachelor's degree in sociology, and a 2012 graduate of National University with a double master's in education and organizational leadership. She is currently working toward a Doctor of Education degree in sport and athletic management from National University.
