Athletic Liaison Program
Welcome, Faculty and Staff!
Wayne State University’s Athletic Liaison Program invites faculty and staff to serve as volunteer liaisons to our intercollegiate athletic teams as a meaningful way to engage with our student-athletes, support the university, and build connections across campus. This is a unique opportunity to support the success of our Warrior student-athletes, both on the field and in the classroom.
Athletic Liaisons enhance our campus and the student-athlete experience by creating a more connected and supportive university environment. These relationships can:
- Increase student-athlete retention and success
- Promote a stronger understanding within the university community of the demands that student-athletes face
- Encourage greater faculty involvement in the holistic development of WSU’s students
- Build institutional pride and community between campus departments and athletics
- Support the University’s mission of achieving excellence in academics and athletics
At Wayne State, we believe in the Division II commitment to “Life in the balance”, which emphasizes learning, service, passion, sportsmanship, and resourcefulness. Our Athletic Liaisons play an important role in helping us maintain this balance by fostering academic support, mentorship, and connection between the academic and athletic communities.
What is the Role of an Athletic Liaison?
Athletic Liaisons serve as champions for student-athletes and teams. You do not need to be an expert in a given sport or NCAA athletics! Rather, your presence, encouragement, and commitment to student success are what matter most. Specific responsibilities may vary depending on your availability and the needs of the team, but common ways faculty and staff contribute include:
- Attending games or team events to show support and connect with student-athletes
- Serving as a resource for academic and career guidance
- Helping student-athletes navigate campus services, connecting them to support and resources
- Facilitating communication between faculty, academic advisors, and athletic staff
- Celebrating academic accomplishments like honor roll recognition or graduation milestones
- Supporting the recruitment process of student-athletes with interests in your academic area
How to Get Involved
We are always looking for enthusiastic faculty and staff to join the program. Whether you're new to campus or a long-time Warrior, your support can make a lasting difference. To volunteer or learn more, please contact:
Laurel Whalen, Ph.D.
Faculty Athletics Representative
Associate Professor of Teaching, Sport Management & Administration
Wayne State University
laurel.whalen@wayne.edu
313-577-2704
Faculty/Staff Athletic Liaison List
