After a hard battle against cancer, Kevin Vest, the Athletic Director of Tyler Junior College, passed away. The college announced this sorrowful news on Tuesday.
In heartfelt posts on Facebook and Twitter, TJC shared, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our Athletic Director, Kevin Vest, after he lost a lengthy battle with melanoma. Our prayers are with his family and all of the lives he touched during his illustrious career.”
Vest, the fifth athletic director in TJC’s 96-year history, leaves behind an impactful legacy. His wife Alicia posted on CaringBridge, “Kevin left us last night peacefully and with (daughter) Macey and me by his side. We feel relieved knowing that he is free of pain, free of cancer and free of the limitations his body had put on him. Please know every message sent was read to him. I know he went feeling love’s embrace.”
New TJC football coach with Athletic Director Kevin Vest (image via tylerpaper)
In July 2019, Vest assumed the role of athletic director at TJC. Under his guidance, the Apaches secured an impressive eight national championships. In recognition of his leadership, he received the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) Athletics Director of the Year Award in 2021.
Vest’s deep connection to the college and the community was evident. Dr. Tim Drain, TJC Associate Vice Provost for Student Affairs, shared, “He got completely invested in this college, completely invested in this town, completely invested in everything.” He emphasized Vest’s genuine love for the area and his dedication to TJC.
Dr. Howard Patterson, UT Tyler Vice President for Athletics, extended condolences on behalf of UT Tyler and stated, “Kevin’s sense of humor and passion for college athletics will be sorely missed.”
Before his tenure at TJC, Vest served as the athletic director at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove, Illinois, since 2016. His career path encompassed roles such as head baseball coach and sports coordinator at Rock Valley College, during which he also served as an associate scout for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Vest’s contributions extended beyond TJC. He was actively involved in various sports organizations, demonstrating his commitment to the development of collegiate athletics.
During his time at TJC, the college achieved remarkable success, securing 69 NJCAA national championships since 1946. Vest’s leadership covered a diverse range of sports, including baseball, basketball, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball.
The passing of Kevin Vest is mourned not only by TJC but by the broader collegiate athletics community, as his influence and dedication touched many lives.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
