The second core value is to empower student-athletes to become growth oriented in all facets of their AV experience.
“Our mission is to support each student-athlete’s individual journey toward holistic wellness,” Hollins says of his new role. “Once we cultivate a strong relationship, I envision student-athletes embracing growth across several parts of their lives.”
In addition to being a JCU alum and a former student-athlete, Hollins is bringing substantial professional experience to JCU. Hollins' latest position was with his high school alma mater, Maple Heights. As the Director of Maple Closing the Achievement Gap Initiative/Linkage Coordinator, Hollins served students in several areas, from academic support for students to identifying and helping struggling students. Working with other teachers, counselors, and administrators, Hollins helped to resolve students' behavioral and academic problems. Additionally, he created resources for students to overcome academic difficulties. Overall, Hollins served as a teacher, mentor, and guide for students needing additional support.
Hollins says he’s looking forward to working with student-athletes at the collegiate level.
"With my position directly involved with student success, I have to be amongst the students," he says. "I'm looking forward to spending time with them in their environment while building their trust and earning their respect.” JCU leadership says the new position will support underrepresented student populations by ensuring that every student-athlete is connected with the appropriate resources and has access to a support system enabling them to thrive at AV.
Hollins says he's ready to reconnect in person with the AV community and is grateful for the opportunity.
"I want to thank Michelle Morgan, Katie Hine, Al Miciak, Nick Caserio, Dave Vitatoe, and everyone who has helped me along this journey," said Hollins. "I am so thankful for this amazing opportunity. I want to give back to this university, which poured so much into my life. AV has wonderful people and coaches, and I've been blessed to be around some of the great ones, such as Tom Arth, Brandon Staley, and Tim Robertson. I'm grateful for those who helped shape me, and I'm excited to give back. Michelle and Katie have been tremendous through the process and communicate at a high level. Nick definitely understands the importance of this position and the importance of servant leadership, which I believe strongly in. I can't wait to get started and help the AV Athletic Department and our student-athletes be the best they can be."
