Chowan University Athletics

Dennis Helsel served Chowan University as Vice President for Athletics dutifully and loyally from 2006 until 2013.  Helsel retired from the position in late 2013 with over 35 years of intercollegiate athletic experience, with eight of those years having been the Vice President for Athletics at Chowan University.  Over the course of his career, Helsel has served within various associations including NCAA Division I institutions (Penn State, Old Dominion, Syracuse, Akron, and Maryland) and Conference USA. 

Then Chowan University President, Dr. M. Christopher White stated, "Prior to Dennis coming to Chowan, the athletic programs were in shambles for many reasons.  We were looking for an individual who had experience at various levels of the NCAA and was familiar with their processes.  Under Dennis' direction, he shepherded Chowan through the transition process from DIII to DII and aided our acceptance into the division as quickly as is possible."

Under Helsel's guidance and oversight, the Hawks soared to new heights having made the transition from NCAA DIII to NCAA DII and accepted into full membership with the oldest historically black conference in the nation, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).   The Hawks enjoyed five CIAA Championships during Helsel's tenure; two in the sport of softball, and two in volleyball and one golf medalist along with four CIAA Northern Division Championships in softball and volleyball.   

Dr. White continued, "Dennis was instrumental in Chowan's transition to the CIAA.  His expertise to his colleagues in the league was valuable. His focus on sportsmanship and integrity in sport is admirable."

As a result of Helsel's tireless leadership efforts, Chowan student-athletes and the department as a whole have seen the benefit of significant increases in operational budgets, salaries, and scholarships.   Helsel has also been instrumental in the addition of women’s bowling (winter 2010), reestablishment of the women's cross country team (fall of 2011), the addition of women's lacrosse (spring 2012), and the addition of men's cross country (fall 2012).  Helsel’s commitment to gender equity still serves as a model for Chowan athletics and for other institutions.

In addition, Helsel oversaw numerous capital improvements during his time at Chowan.  He also served the institution as an instructor in the Sport Management program.  He has served on various NCAA committees, including chairing the NCAA DII Men's Soccer Committee.  He served as a member of the NCAA Minority Opportunities and Interests Task Force.   He showed a steadfast commitment to mentoring others as is evident in his selection and participation as a mentor in the inaugural NACDA/ADA DII Women and Minorities Mentoring program.

To honor Helsel's success and contribution to the Chowan athletics and the institution as a whole, the Board of Trustees has unanimously named Helsel Director of Athletics Emeritus in 2013. This honor has never been bestowed on an athletic director in the history of the institution. 

Helsel remains active in his community and in his home church. He serves as an adjunct professor for Elizabethtown College and also serves as a part time limo driver for Fullington Bus & Limo. His love for his alma mater, the United States Military Academy, keeps him busy as he serves as the President of the West Point Society of Central PA. He is also the Regional Advisor for the West Point AOG. He and his wife are members of Calvary United Methodist Church where they are both active in lessons and Vacation Bible School. He serves on several committees at Calvary UMC.  
Helsel is married to wife, Sue, together they have three children, Mike, Chris, and Jennifer, and six grandchildren, Mia, Maci, Ava, Jack, Avery, and James. The couple resides in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.