WESTERVILLE, Ohio – After more than 30 years spanning four different decades, the time has come for Connie Richardson to call it a career.

One of the longest-tenured employees in the history of Otterbein Athletics (as both a coach and administrator) has decided to retire at the end of the school year. Her last official day on campus will be May 31.

"It has always been about the tremendous people and relationships that have come together over my time here," said Richardson, currently serving as Interim Athletic Director. "I have been thinking back (lately) to when I was a 25-year old and you think you know everything. As I picked up more responsibility along the way, it's been interesting to reflect on how I handled something then to how I might operate now. There have been ups, downs and everything in between – but Otterbein has allowed me to grow into who I am."

Richardson arrived to campus in 1991 for (what became) a lengthy run as head women's basketball coach and instructor in the physical education department. She roamed the sidelines for the next 28 years and now ranks fourth all-time in Ohio Athletic Conference history with 382 victories.

Her 2003-04 team holds the school record for most wins (23) in a single season, making the OAC Tournament Final before falling to eventual national champion Wilmington. Almost a decade later, in 2012-13, the program capped a two-year run with a combined 41-14 record and berth in the NCAA Championships.

Richardson still keeps a personal calendar with birthdays of former players, and still tries to pass along well wishes through a text message or phone call.

"You don't always agree on everything, but growing together and moving from player-coach to that of an adult friendship has been very important to me," Richardson continued. "I enjoy watching their families grow and love Christmas time because I get all of the cards with their spouses, kids, and pets. They have meant so much to me."

The Dexter City, Ohio native has also been a dedicated employee in other areas, helping guide the evolution of Otterbein Athletics (originally separated by men's and women's) into one department. She has served as a longtime Senior Woman's Administrator, OAC President, women's basketball coaches chair multiple times, and on both the OAC Awards and Championships committees.

Richardson stepped away from coaching in 2019 to assume enhanced duties as Associate Athletic Director. Her leadership was on display in guiding the department through COVID-19, a campus cyber attack, the sudden passing of star football player Nigel Chatman, and countless day-to-day tasks behind the scenes. More recently, she stepped in as Interim AD this past school year after the departure of Dawn Stewart in early September.

"It has been fun watching and supporting everyone's journey from different angles," added Richardson. "You see someone struggling in a certain area and know how it affects them. But when they navigate the bumps and it all comes together, it's amazing to watch and a true honor to celebrate alongside. We are blessed to share this experience."

Richardson was inducted into the Otterbein Hall of Fame in 2021 and the Heidelberg Hall of Fame back in 1993 after a storied playing career. The women's basketball locker room at Otterbein is now named in her honor.

Although Connie will be transitioning into a new chapter of life (which now includes having a grandson) those most familiar know her support will always be present… whether from near or afar.

"My family and I don't know anything other than Otterbein… so we will always be supporters," Richardson said in conclusion. "I hope to see older coaches further their success and newer staff members grow into their roles. It's easy to get tunnel vision and work in your own space, but some of my fondest memories include watching our staff bond together as people. Support each other outside of your job titles, create lifelong friendships, and be kind…"

Otterbein is now in the process of beginning a national search for its next Director of Athletics. MORE DETAILS AND FULL JOB POSTING HERE