In collegiate sports, mentorship is foundational for the success of student-athletes. Coaches, administrators and the entire university athletics staff dedicate their work to honing student-athletes’ skills, supporting them in every aspect and celebrating team victories. Recently, the Saints have achieved notable success in competition and in the classroom, inspiring student-athletes to aim even higher and achieve their full potential.
Associate Athletics Director for Student-Athlete Development Ryan Wildenhain has always aimed to improve his craft, and now has the chance to do so on a national level. He was recently chosen for the NCAA Pathway Program, the first time a Marymount Athletics staff member has been selected. Offering a yearlong, intensive learning experience for senior athletics administrators across NCAA divisions, the program prepares them for leadership roles as athletic directors or conference commissioners. It also features activities such as governance meetings, media training and mentorship from athletic and academic leaders, culminating in the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Convention in June 2025.
“I feel tremendous excitement for this career-altering opportunity, and gratitude for those who helped me along the way,” Wildenhain said.
“I am excited for Ryan and his selection to the 2024-2025 NCAA Pathway Program as it is very highly regarded and he is so deserving of this opportunity,” added Jill McCabe, Vice President for Athletics, Student Wellness and Ministry at Marymount University. “Ryan is an asset to Marymount Athletics, always looking to support our student-athletes and staff and help them achieve success. I look forward to his continued leadership growth.”
With nearly a decade of service at Marymount and a background that includes leadership roles in sports medicine and athletics administration, Wildenhain’s selection underscores his efforts to advance athletic excellence and administrative acumen. After joining Marymount in 2015 as the Head of Sports Medicine, he advanced to roles as Assistant Athletics Director for Sports Performance and Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development before reaching his current role.
Prior to his Marymount tenure, he served as Randolph College’s assistant athletic trainer for four years, helping train athletes from 17 sports teams. He also worked as a clinical preceptor at both Liberty University and Lynchburg College, supervising work-study students in athletic training programs. A highlight during this period was his collaboration with key personnel to establish protocols for students recovering from traumatic brain injuries.
“My philosophy for the work I do in collegiate athletics includes my unwavering commitment to always put student-athletes’ best interests first and help them become the best versions of themselves,” Wildenhain explained.
His participation in the NCAA Pathway Program, supported by a nomination from former Atlantic East Conference Commissioner Jessica Huntley, reflects his dedication to student-athlete welfare and professional growth.
“It’s an honor to represent Marymount and the Atlantic East Conference,” Wildenhain shared. “I feel overwhelmingly blessed to be able to bring knowledge, ideas, strategies and culture-building exercises back to Marymount to help our coaches and student-athletes grow professionally.”
Wildenhain earned his bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Illinois State University and his master’s degree in athletic training from California University of Pennsylvania, where he received the Highmark Graduate Student Award that recognizes one graduate student for their achievements in a health-related field.
