Valparaiso University Director of Athletics Mark LaBarbera has announced that Lanie Steinwart has taken over as the department’s Faculty Athletics Representative.
The FAR plays a critical role in ensuring academic integrity and student-athlete well-being. Steinwart, the Chair of the Communication Department, replaces Lissa Yogan, who held the position for the last seven years. Yogan was recently elevated to the University’s Assistant Provost for Faculty Affairs.
“We are grateful to Dr. Yogan for her service to Valpo Athletics and our student-athletes during her tenure as FAR,” LaBarbera said. “She has been a passionate advocate for the athletic and academic experiences of student-athletes both on campus and in the Missouri Valley Conference. While her insights and perspectives will be missed in Athletics, we are thrilled that she will be sharing them with the broader campus in her new role as Assistant Provost.”
Steinwart began teaching courses for the Valpo communication department in 1996 before accepting a full-time faculty position in 2000. She worked in the University’s information technology office in the area of user support from 1989-2000. Steinwart was promoted to Communication Department Chair in July 2015.
“We are excited to have Dr. Steinwart assume the position of FAR,” LaBarbera said. “She is well thought of on campus for her commitment to both student success and the Valpo Experience. Under her leadership, the Communication Department is a strong partner with Athletics in our web streaming of Athletics events.”
Steinwart earned her bachelor’s degree in communication and master’s in liberal studies from Valpo before completing her doctoral degree in organizational leadership from the University of Phoenix School of Advanced Studies.
“I’m honored to have been chosen to serve in this position,” Steinwart said. “I love Valpo sports, and Valpo has always stressed the importance of academics for our athletes. I look forward to working with the student-athletes and strengthening the relationship between faculty and athletics.”
