As the Spanish Department Chair, Professor V. Daniel Rogers is already dedicated to helping students succeed at Wabash. On top of his academic responsibility, Rogers is stepping into the role of Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) this year with the goal of integrating academics and athletics for our student-athletes to thrive both in the classroom and on the field.
“The FAR is an NCAA-mandated position and reports to President Feller,” said Rogers. “The most important job of the FAR is to work with the athletic department and the academic side of the College to ensure that students are safe and successful.”
Rogers has worked closely with Assistant Athletic Director Allison Manwell on logistics like eligibility and travel. And already in the early stages, Manwell believes Rogers has done his due diligence to earn this position.
“Dr. Rogers has been excited about the role as a big athletics fan and a big supporter of our coaches,” said Manwell. “He’s brought a good presence to our staff meetings and has attended compliance meetings to introduce himself to our teams. He will be leading baseball’s immersion trip to the Dominican Republic this Thanksgiving Break and I know he has more immersion travel in mind. He and I plan to tag-team a trip or two in the near future.”
Rogers has always held a passion for sports, but across his multiple years working at the college, he’s embraced how Wabash stands by its culture of academics and athletics working together. And it’s this very culture that helps develop students to make an impact in the real world.
“It’s important to make sure our culture is maintained,” said Rogers. “We are helping guys to take the lessons and experiences in both the academic and athletic fields to become really effective leaders and successful graduates.”
Not only has Rogers enjoyed building relationships with his students, but he’s gained a newfound respect for athletes who deeply value their education. As the new Faculty Athletic Representative, Rogers will continue supporting students who have the resilience to pursue their academic experience as much as they pursue their sport.