Falmouth, MA – On Sunday, September 29 the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) honored former Adelphi Athletic Director Robert E. Hartwell with the 2013 ECAC Commissioner's Award. The award was presented during the 2013 ECAC Honors Dinner sponsored by Jostens, which was held in conjunction with the 25th Annual ECAC Convention and Trade Show at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in North Falmouth, Massachusetts.
The ECAC Commissioner's Award is presented for meritorious service to the ECAC or an ECAC member institution. The recipient must have demonstrated significant accomplishment in his or her chosen professional field or on the athletic field.
"Throughout Bob Hartwell's 26 years at Adelphi he displayed an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Adelphi's student-athletes and to athletic excellence," stated Director of Athletics Danny McCabe. "This award from the ECAC is a testament to Bob's legacy and a well-deserved honor. The entire Adelphi Athletics community congratulates Bob on this honor."
For nearly 26 years, Robert Hartwell oversaw the athletic department at Adelphi University. During his tenure as Athletic Director, the Panthers qualified for 104 NCAA Tournaments, won 10 National Championships and 10 NCAA Regional Championships. Hartwell was an ardent supporter of women's athletics throughout his career and added four women's programs while at Adelphi, including the field hockey program in 2008, after a 25 year hiatus.
Prior to his time at Adelphi, Hartwell was a member of the Babson College Athletic Department. In 1975, he led the Men's Soccer team to a National Championship and in 1978, he took over as Athletic Director, a position he held for eight years. While in that position, Babson added varsity sports in field hockey, women's soccer, women's swimming and diving and women's volleyball.
Hartwell stepped down as Adelphi Universities Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics and Recreation on July 31, 2013.
