ELSAH, IL – Ann Pierson, who has led Principia College's athletics program since 2019, has stepped down as Director of Athletics. We extend our heartfelt thanks for her 17 years of committed leadership and service to our student-athletes and the Principia community.
During the last six years, Pierson guided the department through significant transitions – championing recruitment initiatives, launching a values-aligned onboarding program for coaches, expanding student access to health services, and contributing to the development of updated admissions criteria focused on recruiting values-aligned students. She adeptly navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring athletic competition could continue safely.
Under Pierson's leadership, the Panthers achieved historic milestones, including the College's first SLIAC championship in women's basketball, its first 15s national championship in rugby, and multiple student-athletes competing in NCAA national championships in tennis and track & field.
Pierson's deep connection to Principia College is long-standing. From 1995-2000, she served as head women's basketball coach and assistant track & field coach. She then took over the helm of the track & field program from 2000-2006, guiding two teams to USCAA championships as well as high finishes at NCAA Division III nationals. Since returning to Principia, she has continued assisting the jumping and throwing athletes, helping five athletes break well established school records. Over the course of her career, she has trained six athletes who earned NCAA All-American honors.
To ensure a smooth transition, the College has appointed head women's basketball coach
Ramiro Dominguez as Interim Athletic Director. Coach Dominguez brings deep institutional knowledge, strong campus relationships, and a steady leadership style. His extensive experience managing athletic events and facilities will be invaluable as the College prepares for the fall season. Head baseball coach
Chris Marston will also step up within the department to serve as Interim Assistant Athletic Director during this transition.
"Coach Ann's enduring impact on Principia and this department is deeply felt," says Dominguez. "She has inspired countless student-athletes as well as her fellow coaches, and we are profoundly grateful for her many contributions to the College. We look forward to building on her legacy moving forward."
A national search has officially begun to identify a new leader to guide Principia College athletics into its next chapter of excellence.
