The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) is proud to announce that Mai Anh Nguyen, Director of Athletics at Vanier College, has been named the 2025 CCAA Athletic Director of the Year.
Now in her 10th year leading the Cheetahs athletic department, Nguyen has distinguished herself through exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to student-athlete success - both on the field and in the classroom.
This past academic year, Nguyen and her team managed 11 intercollegiate programs, including four CCAA-level teams, a Division 1 football program, and six Division 2/3 teams. Despite being supported by just three full-time staff members, Vanier's athletic department has consistently set a high standard for programming, engagement, and excellence.
One of the standout accomplishments under Nguyen's leadership this year was Vanier College's hosting of the 50th CCAA Men's Basketball National Championship, the institution's first national event since 1987. The championship was a resounding success, with Nguyen spearheading efforts to involve the college band, dance troupe, and IT department, creating a vibrant and inclusive game-day atmosphere.
Nguyen's approach to sports at Vanier is deeply rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu, a South African philosophy that emphasizes humanity, compassion, and teamwork. This ethos has helped unify Vanier's diverse student-athlete population, foster campus community, and build leadership beyond athletics.
Under her guidance, the Cheetahs have implemented initiatives such as supervised study halls, post-secondary orientation sessions, and team mentorship programs, all designed to support academic achievement.
Nguyen has also placed significant emphasis on alumni engagement and community outreach. Her department revived a golf fundraiser, raising over $16,000 in its inaugural year to support team-building initiatives. During the holiday season, the Cheetahs partnered with local organizations to deliver heartfelt community service projects including writing Christmas cards for seniors and collecting donations for Sun Youth.
Athletically, the Cheetahs thrived under Nguyen's leadership, with multiple teams reaching RSEQ provincial championships. Including a bronze medal finish for the Cheetahs' men's basketball team.
Beyond Vanier, Nguyen continues to serve the collegiate sport community through numerous roles. She is the CCAA Women's Basketball National Convenor, a member of the CCAA Eligibility Committee, and represents RSEQ on the CCAA Board.
The CCAA congratulates Mai Anh Nguyen on this well-deserved honour and thanks her for her continued commitment to advancing intercollegiate athletics in Canada.
