College Sports Information Directors of America

25-Year Award
Presented to College Sports Communicators members who have completed 25 years in the athletics communications profession. Vetted and voted on by the Special Awards Committee. 

Kit Strief — Valdosta State University Assistant Athletic Director for Communications
 

"I appreciate this honor in being recognized by CSC for 25 years in athletic communications. Athletic Communications has definitely expanded over the course of my working career and it has been exciting to be part of it. I have had the opportunity to meet and work with outstanding people, publicize phenomenal student-athletes and tell our stories at each of the institutions where I have worked. With all of the new technologies and innovations on the horizon, the future of athletic communications will be very exciting. It has truly been rewarding to be a part of this career." — Kit Strief, 2026 CSC 25-Year Award recipient

Kit Strief is in his eighth year at Valdosta State University as assistant athletic director for communications and has been in the profession since 2000. He has worked all over the country, from UNLV in Las Vegas to South Carolina Aiken, at NCAA Division I and Division II institutions. While at Valdosta State, Strief has promoted three national championship-winning teams in football (2018) and men’s tennis in both 2024 and 2025.

A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Strief knew athletic communications was the avenue of choice at an early age as he earned a bachelor’s degree in communications (triple major in journalism, mass communication and TV/radio) at Grand View College in Des Moines in 2000 and a master’s degree (M.Ed.) in sports administration from Wichita State in 2005.
 

Danny Kambel, Spartanburg Methodist College Assistant AD for Sports Communications: "I began my career in athletic communications around the same time as Kit, and over the years we have built a lifelong friendship. Seeing him receive this honor is a meaningful celebration of his personal and professional dedication."

Jeff Falkner, Cochise College Athletic Director: "Kit has dedicated his life and career to the student-athletes, coaches, colleagues, institutions, and communities he's served. He works tirelessly to enhance their experiences, share their stories, and celebrate their successes. I couldn't be prouder to share in recognizing Kit's 25 years of excellence in sports communications. He is a true leader and example of what college athletics should be. Congratulations, my friend. Here's to 25 more!"

Chris Mitchell, Granite City School District (IL) Manager of District Communications & Transportation, Past CSC Special Awards Recipient: "Congratulations to Kit Strief on 25 years and counting of outstanding service to College Sports Communicators. Kit is not only a respected colleague, but also a good friend who truly understands the impact his work has had on student-athletes, schools, and communities. Throughout his career, he has given back to the profession by serving on numerous committees, and his dedication, professionalism, and genuine appreciation for the role he plays are evident in everything he does. I’m incredibly proud of Kit and all that he has accomplished throughout his career–this recognition is well deserved."

Michael McBroom, Stephen F. Austin State University Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics: "Kit is as loyal and hard-working as anyone in the business, and he's in it for all the right reasons. Documenting, celebrating and recognizing students and coaches for their achievements is in his DNA. It's hard to believe it's been 25 years, but it's a testament to the value he brings to a university, his continual growth in the field, his ability to connect with people and his genuine passion for college athletics."

Brian Henry, Jesuit Dallas Sports Information Director: "Kit has always been someone I could reach out to regarding stats, media coverage and working with students. But the biggest thing was he is the kind of person who can be a sound board for any level or generation of SIDs. He cares about the profession and wants to see people succeed."