The University of Nebraska Omaha Athletic Department named Dr. Gaylene Armstrong as the new Faculty Athletics Representative in October of 2023.
Armstrong's distinguished career, combined with her passion for athletics and commitment to student success, makes her the ideal candidate to fulfill this role.
As the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR), Armstrong will work closely with student-athletes, coaches and senior staff to provide guidance and support. Her responsibilities will include monitoring academic progress, ensuring compliance with NCAA and conference regulations, and promoting a culture of academic excellence within the athletic department.
"We are grateful for the decades of service by Dr. Bill Wakefield and incredibly excited to have Dr. Armstrong as our new FAR. As a former standout student-athlete, Dr. Armstrong is very much in tune with the student-athlete experience and the current landscape of intercollegiate athletics. We look forward to using her expertise as we continue to strategically enhance our integrations with our campus and faculty," said Vice Chancellor / Director of Athletics Adrian Dowell.
Armstrong is the Director and Professor in the School of Criminology. In addition to her many academic accolades, Armstrong brings a passion for athletics and providing support to students. She brings a background in sports, which includes her time playing competitive hockey in the Mid-Atlantic Women's Hockey League. Her career culminated in a USA Hockey Women's National Championship.
As FAR, Armstrong will play a vital role in connecting the campus community with athletics. She will meet regularly with the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, serve as an adviser for university officials, promote wellness and academic success, among other things.
