Dr. Jo-Ann E. Nester joins the Saint Anselm Department of Athletics as the Director of Athletics. Dr. Nester assumed her duties on November 2, 2009.

Dr. Nester came to the Hilltop from Florida Gulf Coast University, where she worked since 2006 as the associate director of athletics. During that time, she has overseen athletic compliance, academic enrichment for athletes and student-athlete development. She also served as interim athletic director and worked directly with a wide variety of university departments, including the registrar's office, admissions, financial aid and all academic departments. Nester also had direct oversight for the transition of FGCU from Division II to Division I.

Dr. Nester was selected from a pool of national candidates for the impressive depth and variety of experience she brings to the position. In addition, she has a demonstrated understanding of athletics' role in the overall Saint Anselm mission, which values sports in balance with academic achievement and spiritual growth.

Prior to joining FGCU, Dr. Nester served as director of athletics at the University of San Diego. She also worked for nine years at Dartmouth College as associate director of athletics, and as director of athletics and recreation and chair of the department of physical education at Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame, Indiana. In addition to her administrative duties at Saint Mary's College, she also served as the basketball and tennis coach.

Dr. Nester graduated from West Chester State College in 1971 with a bachelor of science degree in health and physical education, as well as a master of science degree from West Chester in 1976. In addition, Dr. Nester earned her doctorate in education from Temple University in 1985.