Kristen Smith, Kalamazoo College's Director of Athletics, announced that she will be leaving K effective July 5, 2017. After 23 years Kristen is leaving Kalamazoo College in order to spend more time with family and to pursue new opportunities.
Kristen was named Kalamazoo College's first full-time director of athletics in 2007. She began her career at Kalamazoo College in 1991-92 as a graduate assistant athletic trainer, was assistant softball coach in 1992 and 1993, and became Kalamazoo College's first full-time athletic trainer in 1994. She continued to assist the softball team before taking over as head coach in 1997, leading the Hornets to consecutive third-place finishes in the MIAA. Kristen stepped down from her coaching position following the 1998 season to devote more time to the athletic training services. She became assistant director of women's athletics in 2003 before taking over as director of women's athletics the following year.
As the head athletic trainer, Kristen oversaw the medical care of 300+ student-athletes and 16 varsity sports each year. In addition to the athletic training services, Kristen also taught several classes in the Physical Education department and started the Nutrition course.
During her time as director of athletics, K experienced a significant expansion of the Hornet athletic program which included a $16 million renovation of the athletic fields and fieldhouse, the elevation of five head coaching positions to full-time status, and the addition of two varsity athletic programs.
A committee will be established to conduct a national search for a new athletic director. In the meantime, Head Football Coach Jamie Zorbo will serve as the interim athletic director.