BELLEVUE, Washington --- The NCAA Division II Faculty Athletics Representatives Association announced the inaugural awarding of the FAR of the Year to the University of Mount Olive's Dr. Brenda Cates.
Dr. Cates is the first-ever recipient of the FAR of the Year award for Division II and was recognized for her service to the NCAA, Conference Carolinas, and the University of Mount Olive. Dr. Cates has represented Mount Olive and Conference Carolinas on several NCAA committees including the Academics and Management Committees.
"I am honored to be the recipient of the inaugural NCAA Division II Faculty Athletics Representative of the Year award. It has truly been my pleasure serving as FAR at UMO as part of a team of professionals committed to providing our student-athletes a quality experience. I appreciate the support I've received from UMO, Conference Carolinas, and the NCAA, and I'm thankful for the opportunities I've had to participate in leadership institutes and forums, serve on NCAA committees, and actively participate in the Faculty Athletics Representatives Association, all of which have enabled me to better serve our student-athletes and be an advocate for the DII Life in the Balance philosophy," said Cates.
"Anyone that has had the opportunity to work with Brenda knows that she is a FAR that goes above and beyond the job duties. Our department is very fortunate to have her knowledge and compassion for the student-athletes. She is much deserving of this prestigious honor and award," said Dr. LaToya Lindsey Associate Director of Athletics.
Dr. Cates is a mathematics professor, has served as UMO's FAR since 2003, and during the 2011-12 season, became the Trojan men's and women's basketball official scorekeeper.
She has been instrumental in keeping lines of communication open between coaches and faculty members to help identify student-athletes who are excelling in class and student-athletes who may need additional attention. Dr. Cates also keeps the athletics department abreast of NCAA rules changes.
For more information on the NCAA Faculty Athletics Representatives Association go to the NCAA FARA website.