Waterville, ME, February 2024 —Thomas College Assistant Professor of Science Dr. Tess Harden becomes the new Faculty Athletic Representative for Thomas College Athletics, effective February 1. The position was previously held by Professor Mark Marsolais.

Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Christopher Parsons is excited about Professor Harden's passion when it comes to both Thomas College and Athletics. Since being hired at Thomas in the Fall of 2022, she has been a First-Year Orientation faculty key-note speaker, volunteered at multiple student activity events, worked closely with the admissions department by meeting with potential students during visits and group tours, and is the advisor of a campus club.

The Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) works to improve the quality of relationships between the athletic department and campus. They are important advocates for student-athletes when challenges occur between athletic and academic pursuits. This role ultimately helps student-athletes find balance by being a resource and advocate.

As a former collegiate athlete herself, Harden knows the importance of being involved in athletics and the great experiences it can give student-athletes.

"Not only do athletics promote fitness and the importance of a healthy lifestyle, but they also help students develop leadership, communication skills, and accountability, all of which we try to teach in the classroom," said Harden.

She is excited to be an advocate for student-athletes in the classroom and help maintain good communication and balance in athletics and academics at Thomas College.

Parsons and the entire athletic department thank Mark Marsolais for all the work he has done as the previous FAR and he will be profoundly missed in this position.