College Sports Information Directors of America

Rising Star Award
Presented annually to College Sports Communicators members in the University Division (NCAA DI) and in the College Division (NCAA DII, DIII, NAIA, Two-year Colleges, Canadian institutions) – with 10 years of service or less whose work at their institution, conference office or intercollegiate athletics-affiliated association and service, dedication, energy and enthusiasm to the profession make that individual a "rising star" in athletics communications. Voted on by the Special Awards Committee.

Rachel Schermick — Ivy League Assistant Executive Director, Communications & Championships
 

“I am deeply appreciative of this recognition, but even more grateful for my mentors and colleagues who have trusted me, supported me, and given me the confidence and freedom to grow. I would not be where I am today without so many supportive teammates that I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside.” — Rachel Schermick, 2026 CSC Rising Star Award, University Division recipient

Rachel Schermick was named assistant executive director for communications and championships at the Ivy League in July 2022. In her role, she oversees communications for a variety of sports and helps lead the league’s branding efforts for championship events.

Prior to joining the Ivy League, Schermick spent four years at Hofstra University as director of creative content and assistant director of athletic communications. She served as the primary media contact for women’s soccer, women’s basketball and softball, while also overseeing all Hofstra Pride digital content. Before Hofstra, she spent three years at the University of New Haven in full-time and graduate assistant roles and also worked at SUNY Maritime College, serving as the primary communications contact for multiple sports.

A 2015 graduate of DeSales University, Schermick earned a B.S. in sport management with a minor in marketing and was a four-year member of the softball team. She later earned her master’s degree in sport management with a concentration in collegiate athletic administration from the University of New Haven in December 2016. She currently resides in New Jersey with her husband, Casey, their daughter, Anja, and their dog, Georgia.
 

Stephen Gorchov, Hofstra University Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Marketing and Communications, past CSC 25-Year Award recipient: "Rachel is one of the most exceptional professionals I have had the privilege to work with in college athletics. From her time at Hofstra to her current role in the Ivy League, she consistently brings innovation, energy, and a commitment to excellence to everything she does. Rachel does not just execute at a high level, she elevates every project, department, and team fortunate enough to have her. Her work has never been about accolades or personal recognition. It has always been about doing what is best for the schools and, most importantly, the student-athletes she serves. Rachel’s passion for college athletics is evident in everything she does, and her creativity, professionalism, and drive for excellence set her apart. I am honored to be part of her ongoing career journey and am incredibly proud to see her recognized with the College Sports Communicators Rising Star Award."

Matthew Panto, Ivy League Associate Executive Director, CSC First Vice President: "This Rising Star Award is an incredible acknowledgement of Rachel's hard work, passion and successful start to her career. In my opinion, her well-rounded skillsets are the model for this era of communicators and creatives to build their resumes — a blend of both core communications talents coupled with the ability to produce innovative creative content."

Daniel Ruede, Sacred Heart University Associate Director of Athletics, Athletic Communications: "It was evident from early in her time as a graduate assistant that Rachel would be a Rising Star in athletic communications. From day one, her passion for athletic communications was evident. As a former athlete, she has a deep understanding of how athletic communications adds to the student-athlete experience and has found creative ways to enhance that experience. In addition to fulfilling the traditional SID role, Rachel’s ability to develop creative content helps her stand out among her peers. Receiving the CSC Rising Star Award is a truly deserving recognition for her contributions."