The Elmira College community was shocked and saddened to learn of Dr. Thomas Keith Meier's passing Wednesday. A twenty-five year legacy as President (from 1987 to 2012) that enhanced the student experience, nurtured pride in College tradition and the Purple and Gold, while advancing the expansion of athletics during his tenure.
 
Maximizing opportunities for student-athlete participation was a key focus with the sponsorship of six new varsity sport offerings implemented under Dr. Meier's leadership: men's lacrosse (1989), women's lacrosse (2000), field hockey (2001), women's golf (2001), women's ice hockey (2001) and men's volleyball (2011).  Junior varsity expansion included cheerleading, women's basketball, softball, men's lacrosse, men's and women's soccer, women's volleyball, and men's and women's ice hockey.  The Soaring Eagles' conference affiliation in the Empire 8 and United Volleyball Conference were also realized with his support.
 
Athletics facilities were enhanced with the renovation of Emerson Hall and the addition of Speidel Gymnasium and its athletic support areas in 1996, which serves as the home venue for Elmira's basketball and volleyball teams.  In 2000, the Murray Athletics Center ice rink and hockey locker rooms were upgraded and multipurpose locker rooms added.
 
The Soaring Eagles achieved a plethora of team and individual accomplishments at the conference and national level during Dr. Meier's tenure.  Men's and women's basketball, women's soccer, women's golf, women's volleyball and men's and women's ice hockey participated in NCAA tournaments. Four national championships were achieved: NCAA titles in women's ice hockey in the team's first two seasons of existence (2002, 2003) and two NCA Cheerleading Championships in 2000 and 2007.  Regardless of season, varsity or JV, Dr. Meier was present as a devoted and proud supporter, cheering on the Purple and Gold.
 
Pat Thompson, Vice President of Athletics, considered it a privilege to work with Dr. Meier for 25 years.  
 
"Many young professionals at the College had the opportunity and mentorship to grow their careers." Vice President Thompson shared.
 
"I look back fondly at the Meier years, and will always be grateful for the support Dr. Meier gave to Soaring Eagles athletics, student-athletes, parents, alumni, boosters and to me personally.  His vision, sense of humor and unique gift of remembering names and events made him a very special person."

For more information on Dr. Thomas Keith Meier, please visit click here.