Palm Beach State’s John Scarpino Named NACDA Athletics Director of the Year

Palm Beach State College Athletic Director John Scarpino has been named a 2025-26 Athletics Director of the Year by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA).

Scarpino is among 28 honorees selected nationwide across seven collegiate divisions, including the Junior College/Community College category. The award recognizes directors of athletics who exemplify excellence and leadership in supporting student-athletes, advancing campus athletics, and contributing to their communities.

“John’s commitment to our student-athletes and his leadership in building competitive, academically strong teams make him truly deserving of this national honor,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, JD. “He has elevated Palm Beach State’s athletic programs and inspired excellence across all aspects of Panther athletics.”

Winners will be recognized during the 61st Annual NACDA & Affiliates Convention at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas on Tuesday, June 9, during the Association-Wide Featured Session at 4 p.m.

The NACDA Athletics Director of the Year Award, now in its 28th year, has honored more than 630 athletics directors across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Honorees are selected based on their service record, dedication to student success, teamwork and excellence, and ability to inspire high achievement.

Under Scarpino’s leadership, PBSC has expanded athletic programs, improved facilities, and strengthened academic support for student-athletes. He has fostered a culture focused on integrity, education, and personal development—reflecting the College’s mission to transform lives and strengthen the community through student success.

Since being named Palm Beach State’s director of athletics in 2021, Scarpino has led a period of remarkable growth and achievement across the College’s sports programs. Under his leadership, the men’s basketball team earned a historic milestone—ranking No. 1 in NJCAA Division II among 157 teams nationwide for the first time in PBSC history. The team also captured the FCSAA Division II championship for the first time since 1978 and went on to win the NJCAA DII Gulf South District Championship. They now advance to the National Tournament set for March 16–21, at the Mary Miller Center in Danville, Ill.

PBSC’s women’s teams have also continued their strong tradition of excellence. The women’s basketball team has claimed four consecutive FCSAA Division II championships, while the women’s beach volleyball team has dominated nationally, securing three straight NJCAA titles in 2023, 2024, and 2025. He also restarted the Women's and Men's golf programs that compete at the NJCAA Division I level. 

“This recognition truly belongs to our coaches, staff and student-athletes who dedicate themselves every day to excellence both on and off the field,” Scarpino said. “It’s an honor to represent Palm Beach State College and the Florida College System at this level.”

For more information about Palm Beach State College Athletics, visit www.pbscpanthers.com.