The Lee University athletics program has grown in recent years in success, popularity, respect and leadership, among other things. In large part this growth is due to the work of Athletics Director Larry Carpenter. In honor of his hard work, Carpenter has been named the “2007-08 NAIA Athletics-Directors Association Athletics Director of the Year.”

“This is a very humbling award because there are so many individuals in the profession that are deserving,” said Carpenter. “To be recognized by your peers as one of the best in the country makes this honor very special.”

Carpenter is a long time Flame, committing his athletic and professional careers to the university. He is a member of the Lee University Hall of Fame and was named athletics director in 1995.

“I am blessed to have a president (Paul Conn) and vice president (Gary Ray) who support athletics and are willing to provide the resources necessary to be competitive. I also have a great staff and coaches who are good at what they do and understand the mission of Lee,” Carpenter said.

The athletics program is on the rise, and Carpenter has the passion to see their continued growth.

“My vision is for Lee Athletics to continue to strive for excellence in all areas. I want our teams to be known throughout the country as ones that play hard, play fair and are hard to beat,” Carpenter said.