AD Lindberg Set To Retire, Ruckh to Be Named Director of Athletics

After 40 years in higher education with 25 years in athletics, Wells College's Athletic Director, Mike Lindberg, announces his retirement after 9 years of dedicated service. Under his leadership, the college has made significant strides in enhancing the athletic facilities, programs, and opportunities for student-athletes.

              "To all the Coaches, Staff, and Student-Athletes with whom I have had the greatest honor to serve: You inspired me every day and were my compass.  Thank you for all the great memories and for allowing me to be a part of your lives." Mike Lindberg

              Prior to arriving at Wells, Mike was the Associate Director of Athletics at Ithaca College from 1998-2014. Lindberg also had tenures at the University of Houston Clear Lake and Oxford College of Emory University in various capacities. He earned a bachelor's in science from LeMoyne College and a Master's in education from Indiana University-Bloomington.

                His service in athletics has extended to multiple committees over the years including the NCAA Division III Baseball National Committee, ECAC Board of Directors and Championships Committee Chair, NCAA Division III Women's Basketball National Committee, Division III Representative to the NCAA Life Skills Advisory Board, and the National Collegiate Women's Gymnastics Association Executive Board.

                During his tenure at Wells, Lindberg was responsible for adding full time coaching and administrative positions to the athletic department. He orchestrated the addition of baseball, softball, and golf to Intercollegiate Athletics. He was a member of the Executive Board to the United East Conference, a National Committee member for NCAA Division III baseball, and a Tournament Director for NCAA regional baseball championships.

                He led the renovation of the Farenthold Athletics Wing in the Schwartz Athletic Building as well as the repair of the boathouse and restoration of the Tennis Courts. One of Lindberg's most notable achievements was spearheading the Turf Field project, which has transformed the college's athletic complex and provided a state-of-the-art playing surface for various sports.

                " Mike Lindberg was a terrific mentor and friend as I joined the Wells community and is a trusted and respected colleague across academic and student affairs. I will - we will - miss him." Dr. Susan Henking, Vice President, Academic & Student Affairs.

                Mike is responsible for establishing the Alpha-Omicron chapter of Chi Alpha Sigma (Athletics Honor Society). He coordinated the Sports Management program while adding to the Physical Education curriculum. Lindberg also served as an instructor in Sports Management.

                For the upcoming 2023-2024 season, under Mike's leadership, Wells College has been accepted to the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference. His unwavering commitment to the student-athlete experience has left a lasting impact on Wells College.

                "I have had the great pleasure of working with Mike Lindberg for the past 8 years. After 23 years serving as a college president of three D-3 institutions, Mike is in a class by himself. He leads with passion and compassion. He knows our student-athletes better than any I have ever worked with. He will be very much missed by the Wells community and personally by me. I am confident that Tara will do an exceptional job as her leadership these past years has been terrific." Wells College President Jonathan Gibraltar.

                At the 2023 Wells College commencement ceremony, the Wells College Board of Trustees named Mike Lindberg the Director of Physical Education and Intercollegiate Athletics Emeritus.

                Recently Lindberg was the recipient of the United East Distinguished Service Award. This award is given to a person who has demonstrated dedication and service to the United East, Division III, and countless student-athletes. "In all aspects of Mike's work, you can see how deeply he cares about his programs, his student-athletes, his staff, and his colleagues," said Dutton. "Recognizing Mike with this honor is our way of acknowledging that we are grateful beyond measure for his service to the United East and we wish him nothing but the best as he prepares for a well-deserved retirement!"

                Effective July 1st, Tara Ruckh will assume the role of Athletic Director at Wells College. Ruckh brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as the Associate Athletic Director for Wells College. She holds a master's degree in physical education and has a proven track record of success in athletic administration.

                " I want to thank President DeWitt, Provost Speaker, and Dean Michael for taking a chance on me and giving me the opportunity to pursue my dream to lead a Division III Athletics Program.  I also want to thank President Gibraltar and Vice President Henking for their never-ending trust, support, and understanding of the important work we do.  To the Coaches, Staff, and Student-Athletes....it has been my honor to serve you." Mike Lindberg

                "The Wells Express are in great hands with Director Ruckh.  Her experience as an administrator, coach, and former student-athlete will serve her well as she leads the program through our next chapter with the AMCC.  I know of no one more capable, harder working, and clearer of vision for success than Tara."

                As Wells College bids farewell to Mike Lindberg, the college looks forward to a new era of athletic leadership under Tara Ruckh's guidance. The Wells College community wishes Mike all the best in his retirement and welcomes Tara to her new role as Athletic Director.