Biography
Long-time member of the Clarkson University Athletic Department, Scott Smalling, was appointed Vice President of Operations in April, 2023. In his new role, Smalling oversees Facilities, Custodial Services, Capital Projects and Vendor Relationships. Additionally, he acts as Director of Athletics Strategy and fundraising initiatives within the department. Smalling’s background in the business sector, combined with his leadership experience in the Athletic Department, make him an ideal fit for these important roles.
Since July 2019, Smalling has served as the Director of Athletics and Recreation. During his tenure he provided excellent leadership as the University navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and as a leader on campus he ensured that his department did whatever was necessary to assist in keeping the University open and running during that time.
During his administrative tenure the athletic and recreation program has seen unprecedented growth not only in varsity athletics, but in intramural and recreational offerings as well. When Smalling took over as Director of Athletics and Recreation he understood that we needed to enhance our athletic offerings to all students, not just increase the overall experience of our student athletes. With that philosophy in mind he has always done what is in the best interest of all involved. Our varsity student-athletes have continued to succeed on the Regional and National stage and our student athlete graduation rates have risen to 87% for DIII and 100% for DI, with the overall cumulative GPA for the 20 varsity teams at an all-time high of 3.32.
Prior to becoming Athletic Director, Smalling served as Associate and Assistant Athletic Director at the University, overseeing Clarkson’s Division I men’s and women’s hockey programs, with oversight of all marketing and promotions for the Department while also supervising the Sports Information Office. Since 2005 the men’s and women’s hockey programs have seen tremendous success, earning five regular season ECAC Championships, three ECAC Tournament Championships, 14 NCAA tournament bids and three National Championships. He saw multiple student athletes earn All-America status in both programs.
Smalling also served as the Director of the Cheel Campus Center and held the position of Arena Director at both Walker Arena and Cheel Arena from 1987-1996. Scott was involved with the Cheel renovations and has continually looked for ways to improve facilities for all students and student athletes. In his new role he will continue to raise funds that will support the Athletic Department and the University.
Smalling is a 1980 graduate of Brockport State with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sports Management.
Scott and his wife, Mary Jane, owned and operated two motels in Potsdam from 1985 until 2015, and from January 1996 until October 2002, he was employed by A. Cappione, Inc. where he was responsible for all aspects of promotion, public relations, sales and merchandising in the retail industry.
He makes his home in Hannawa Falls with his wife, Mary Jane, they have three sons in the North Country as well as having six grandchildren.