Northern Kentucky University Athletics

Votruba presided during the most successful era of NKU’s athletics program from 1997-2012, a period that included three Division II national championships and numerous regional titles. His commitment and leadership helped transform NKU into an elite institution, and his support of athletics made it possible for the teams to compete nationally at the highest level of Division II for many years. After helping NKU secure outstanding athletic facilities such as The Bank of Kentucky Center, the Joyce E. Yeager Tennis Complex, the Frank Ignatius Grein Softball Field and the NKU Soccer Stadium, Votruba played a key role in elevating NKU to the NCAA Division I level. His influence and vision helped NKU become a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference in 2012 as the athletics program began the reclassification process to Division I. Always a big fan of NKU sports, Votruba also made his presence known at events such as Women’s Walk, Athletic Council meetings and Senior Awards banquets. He retired as NKU’s president after the 2011-12 academic year.