(Story written by Blake Timm of Pacific University (Ore.) for College Sports Communicators)
A long-time leader in both CSC and the NAIA, Jay Stancil recently completed his second year as a full-time member of the Appalachian Athletic Conference staff. He has served as the conference's sports information contact since 2010. Prior to assuming his full-time role with the AAC, Stancil oversaw athletic communications at Union (Ky.) College from 1999 to 2022.
A past president of the NAIA Sports Information Director Association and CSC College Division Representative, Stancil received the NAIA's Clarence "Ike" Pearson Award in 2010.
Bill Popp, Appalachian Athletic Conference Commissioner – "One thing that was evident while Jay served at Union was that their game day operations always ran very smoothly at all home events. Jay also has served on many NAIA committees and at numerous opening rounds and final sites and continues to be someone the NAIA counts on to help create great student experiences.
Similarly to his previous work at Union, Jay is counted on by many of the AAC institutions to help them navigate game day operations and he continues to help make the AAC championships very special events. Jay always serves as an energetic advocate for student-athletes. His passion for the success of events and providing a valuable student experience is second to none. As a partner in the leadership of the AAC, I am fortunate to have someone as strong as Jay."
Tim Curry, Union Executive Director of Communications – "Simply put, Jay is one of the best in the business when it comes to sports communications. His dedication to the profession and his willingness to help grow other professionals in the business is unmatched. It was a great pleasure to work alongside Jay for many years at Union College and, although we miss him at Union, it is a great benefit to our conference to have Jay leading the sports communication efforts within the Appalachian Athletic Conference. I can think of nobody more deserving of this recognition than my friend, Jay Stancil!"
Taylor Drake, Florida Southern College Assistant Director of Athletic Communications (and a former assistant at Union under Stancil) – "Reflecting on my journey, I owe my entire career to Jay. Without his guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support, I wouldn't be where I am today. His mentorship was the guiding light that propelled me forward, shaping me into the professional I am proud to be. He didn't just teach me the ropes; he showed me how to innovate, communicate effectively, and elevate my strategies to new heights. His impact on my professional journey is immeasurable, and I am forever grateful for the doors he opened and the opportunities he paved for me. Every success I've achieved stands as a testament to his profound influence. I am forever indebted to him for the opportunities he provided and the belief he instilled in me. Without a doubt, he is the driving force behind my career in athletic communication, and I know many others as well."
Career Reflections From Jay Stancil - "I have been blessed to have found a home at Union and with the AAC. Both have long been like a family to me and places I love and am grateful to have spent the bulk of my adult life at. At both places, I've been given the freedom to learn and grow and take my department where I believe is best for both organizations. That level of support is hard to come by, and I am forever grateful for the time I spent at Union and with the AAC.
I credit my longevity in the profession to really loving what I do and enjoying it so much that I truly have lost track of how long I have been doing this. There is also something new going on, and no two days are alike. And to quote my good friend, the late Patrick Moore, 'We get to play in the toy box of the athletic department.' So, with that said, might as well have fun."