Lake-Sumter State College is proud to announce the appointment of Jay Miller as Executive Director of Athletics. Miller has served as Interim Director of Athletics since August 2024 while continuing his role as Head Softball Coach.
“Jay has proven to be an exceptional leader who brings energy, vision, and heart to everything he does,” said Dr. Laura Byrd, Interim President of Lake-Sumter State College. “His commitment to student-athlete success and his ability to lead with both strategy and compassion make him the ideal person to guide Lakehawk Athletics into the future.”
“I am a big believer that everything happens for a reason, and this is one of those moments,” says Miller. “This is an amazing opportunity to go from impacting the softball program to all twelve sports. I appreciate Dr. Byrd, Dr. Mews, and my Lakehawk colleagues for their support.”
Since joining the College in 2015, Miller has transformed the softball program, with student-athletes breaking 39 of 45 all-time program records and becoming the winningest coach in team history. He surpassed 250 career wins last season.
“Jay’s impact on our student-athletes and the overall athletics experience at LSSC has been remarkable,” said Dr. Joseph Mews, Vice President of Enrollment & Student Affairs. “He leads with integrity, a student-first mindset, and the competitive spirit that defines what it means to be a Lakehawk.”
Under Miller’s interim leadership this past year, Lakehawk Athletics reached new milestones. Ten of the College’s 11 teams advanced to postseason competition, and the Beach Volleyball team earned a fourth-place finish at the national tournament. More than 100 student-athletes achieved a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a testament to the department’s commitment to academic excellence.
“Lakehawk Athletics is committed to doing things the right way and that means developing student-athletes into great people,” said Miller. “Winning is a result of that purpose. I’m excited to build on the strong foundation and help every Lakehawk program reach its potential.”
This fall, Lakehawk Athletics will expand to 12 teams with the addition of Women’s Golf. The lineup includes Baseball, Beach Volleyball, Men’s & Women’s Cross Country, Men’s & Women’s Golf, Men’s & Women’s Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field, Indoor Volleyball, and Softball.
For more information about Lakehawk Athletics, visit www.lakehawksports.com.