Doerfler Promoted to Director of Athletics

Vice President of Operations & Athletics Maria Buckel is pleased to announce the promotion of Danielle Doerfler to Director of Athletics.

"I'm thrilled to be elevated to Director of Athletics, especially when surrounded by a staff I have had the privilege of working with over the last three years," said Doerfler. "It is because of the work of our entire athletic department staff that I'm being provided this opportunity to continue to lead Fontbonne Athletics."

She continued, "I want to personally thank Vice President Maria Buckel and President Nancy Blattner for their encouragement, leadership, and opportunity. It's an incredibly exciting and successful time right now within Fontbonne Athletics and we will work to continue to drive that momentum forward. Thank you to all of our coaches, staff, student athletes, alumni and fans for your continued support. Go Griffins!"

In her time at Fontbonne, Doerfler has started the Diversity and Inclusion, Mental Health Awareness Committee, and Women's Power Half Hour. She's also the Deputy Title IX Coordinator and an Adjunct teacher in the Sports Management Department.

Prior to joining Fontbonne, Doerfler was no stranger to the SLIAC where she spent 10 years at MacMurray. She held numerous roles at MacMurray including being at the helm of the women's volleyball program for eight seasons and Assistant Athletic Director from 2016-19.

Staff quotes on Danielle Doerfler:

Vice President of Operations & Athletics, Maria Buckel:

"Danielle has brought so many positives to Fontbonne Athletics that are too many to name. However, her mentoring of staff/coaches; diversity, equity, including, and belonging work; mental health initiatives; and her overall leadership stand out. Danielle could go to any like institution and be a very successful AD. Her role has consisted of many AD roles since her time at Fontbonne. I trust her implicitly with any decision and am excited to promote her into the role she has served so beautifully and that she will continue to grace our department with her talents and skills."

Head Cross Country / Track & Field Coach, Justin Halley:

"Danielle has been an integral part of my development as a young coach. Her door is always open for advice or just to chat. She's the definition of someone who leads by example, and is the perfect choice for the AD position."

Head Softball Coach, Casey Cromwell:

"Danielle has been a sounding board for many coaches at Fontbonne, including myself since she's arrived, student-athletes love to chat with her, and she's implemented many committees within our department and connected us with other departments on campus because of them. Danielle is truly invested in the growth of not only our department but Fontbonne in general. I could not be happier for her and I'm excited to see what else she enhances on our campus."

Head Dance Coach, Laura Martin:

"Danielle is a wonderful leader and mentor to so many at Fontbonne. She brings positivity, encouragement, and kindness when working with coaches and student-athletes. The work she does for the mental health and diversity and inclusion of all staff and athletes is so appreciated. She's an inspirational woman with athletics!"

Administrative Assistant, Robyn Steiner:

"Congratulations, Danielle! You've brought so much to this department and I know you'll continue to do so much more for the Athletic Department and our staff."

Assistant AD for Athletic Communications, Ben Mizera:

"Since Danielle arrived on campus she's made an immediate impact at Fontbonne with her involvement with Mental Health, Diversity & Inclusion, supporting all of our athletic programs, student-athletes and so much more! She's been a mentor for me and someone that tries to bring out the best in all of us on staff. I couldn't be happier for my friend Danielle and look forward to the future ahead!

Head Cheerleading & STUNT Coach, Ashley Johnson:

"Danielle has been such a great asset to Fontbonne and our athletic department. She has acted as a great mentor, friend, and leader to so many. If anyone deserves this position, it's her!"

Associate Cross Country / Track & Field, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Emily Bay:

"I couldn't picture anyone better for the position of Director of Athletics here at Fontbonne! Danielle is a mentor to many people in a variety of different areas and I greatly appreciate her for always going out of her way to help others. She's truly an amazing human being and I couldn't be happier for her to have earned this promotion."

STORY COURTESY OF FONTBONNE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS