Don Dutcher Named NJCAA Region 3 Athletic Director of the Year

HERKIMER, N.Y. – Herkimer College Director of Athletics Don Dutcher has been named the 2026 NJCAA Region 3 Athletic Director of the Year, earning the prestigious recognition for a fourth time in his distinguished career.

Dutcher, who has served as Herkimer's Director of Athletics since 2005 and as the College's Dean of Students since 2019, has guided one of the nation's premier NJCAA athletic programs during his 21-year tenure. Under his leadership, the Generals have captured more than 30 NJCAA National Championships, 55 NJCAA Region 3 Championships, nearly 80 Mountain Valley Conference Championships, and eight NJCAA Academic Team of the Year awards.

The honor marks Dutcher's fourth Region 3 Athletic Director of the Year award after previously receiving the distinction in 2008, 2010, and 2019.

Beyond Herkimer's competitive success, Dutcher has earned widespread respect throughout Region 3 and the NJCAA for his commitment to student-athletes and his service to intercollegiate athletics. Herkimer has become one of the region's premier championship hosts, welcoming countless Region 3 and NJCAA events under Dutcher's leadership. His vision, organization, and dedication to providing an outstanding student-athlete experience have made the college a trusted destination for championship competition.

Region 3 Board of Regents member and Women's Director Kristen Schuth praised Dutcher's impact throughout the region.

"There's a level of trust that comes with Donnie—coaches, officials, and administrators all know that when he's involved, things will run smoothly and the experience will be a positive one for everyone, especially the student-athletes. What really stands out about Donnie, though, is how he goes about his work. No matter how busy or high-pressure the situation, he approaches everything with humility, positivity, and that steady, genuine smile people have come to expect. He has a way of putting people at ease and bringing others together, which makes collaboration feel easy. He's the kind of colleague who not only gets the job done, but makes the experience better for everyone around him. He leads with kindness, treats people the right way, and represents everything we hope intercollegiate athletics can be."

Herkimer Associate Athletic Director and Athletic Trainer Kyle Roepnack, who has worked alongside Dutcher for two decades, reflected on his leadership and lasting influence.

"He is a tremendous leader and a tireless worker. The best compliment I can give about him is he elicits everyone's maximum effort. I always wanted to perform at a high level for him because I knew he would be doing the same. He has led Herkimer Generals athletics to be one of the most successful athletic programs in the NJCAA."

Region 3 Men's Director Mick McDaniel also commended Dutcher's contributions to the conference and the NJCAA.

"Donnie's dedication to assuring a quality experience for his Generals and all those that have competed in the many championships Herkimer has hosted has been exemplary. Since his early days in Region 3, Donnie has helped create the blueprint for how an excellent NJCAA athletics program should run. Donnie has certainly earned this honor and I am thankful for the years we have been able to serve student-athletes together."

The award comes as Dutcher prepares to retire following 21 years as Herkimer's Director of Athletics, closing a remarkable chapter that has transformed the Generals into one of the NJCAA's model athletic programs.

Schuth said Dutcher's legacy extends far beyond championships and accolades.

"As Donnie transitions into retirement, we're not just recognizing his accomplishments—we're recognizing the example he's set for all of us. He's shown what it means to serve with purpose and to support the people around you. His impact will last well beyond the events he's hosted, in the relationships he's built and the standard he's set."

As he concludes an extraordinary career, Dutcher leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence, integrity, and service. His leadership has elevated Herkimer College Athletics to national prominence while positively impacting thousands of student-athletes, coaches, administrators, and colleagues throughout Region 3 and the NJCAA.

Congratulations to Don Dutcher on this well-deserved honor and an exceptional career dedicated to Herkimer College and NJCAA athletics.