HOUSTON – The University of St. Thomas Athletics Department has announced the appointment of Dr. Victoria Wagner as the institution's new Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR), effective Aug 1st. In this role, Dr. Wagner will help strengthen the connection between academics and athletics while supporting student-athlete success, institutional compliance, and the University's mission.
Working closely with UST Athletics, the Faculty Athletic Representative plays an important role in supporting the NCAA Division III philosophy while collaborating with the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC). The position helps oversee student-athlete eligibility, promotes compliance with NCAA regulations, and works closely with campus partners, including the Registrar, Admissions, Financial Aid, and Athletics Compliance.
Dr. Wagner serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of St. Thomas. She earned her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Houston and is passionate about mentoring students through courses in cognition, perception, statistics, and research. She previously served as director of the Master's in Applied Sports and Performance Psychology program and currently chairs the University's Institutional Review Board.
A former track and field student-athlete at Rice University, Dr. Wagner was a member of the Owls' 2007-09 indoor and outdoor conference championship teams. She has also served as a Freshman Symposium mentor at UST, helping first-year students, including many student-athletes, successfully transition to college life.
"I am honored to serve as the Faculty Athletic Representative at the University of St. Thomas," Dr. Wagner said. "As a former student-athlete and educator, I understand the value of balancing academic achievement with athletic competition, and I look forward to supporting our student-athletes throughout their collegiate experience."
"We are thrilled that Dr. Wagner has accepted this role," Director of Athletics Todd Smith said. "She is a highly respected member of our faculty who is deeply committed to student success. Her experience, leadership, and passion for mentoring students make her an outstanding addition to our athletics leadership team."
With Dr. Wagner assuming the role of Faculty Athletic Representative, the University of St. Thomas continues its commitment to academic excellence, student-athlete development, and the NCAA Division III philosophy.
