Long time Director of Athletics Jonathan Tymann '83, who has played a vital role in the growth of Gordon College Athletics, will retire on July 31, 2023 after serving at his post in the Department for the last 14 years. 

Under Tymann's leadership, the Gordon College Athletics' facilities have undergone vast improvements. In 2018, the Brigham Athletic Complex updated a new synthetic turf surface as well as an eight lane, all-weather track complete with spaces and facilities needed to host an official NCAA track and field meet. Later, the Rowing Center on Chebacco Lake became the facility for our nationally recognized rowing team, and the Bennett Athletic Center, along with Gedney Hall, were rebranded, featuring a new hardwood playing surface for basketball and volleyball, LED scoreboards, and a video scorer's table. Most recently, the Marc Whitehouse Broadcast Booth was installed at the Brigham Athletic Complex in the summer of 2021. Since 2018, both the men's and women's soccer programs have won the Commonwealth Coast Conference Championship (CCC) on their home turf, while our track and field programs have been the host site for the CCC Track & Field Championship for the past two years, with our women's team taking home the crown in 2022. 

Additionally, the College has added men's and women's rowing, men's and women's golf, along with the reinstatement of men's and women's indoor track and field. Most notably, both the men's and women's lightweight rowing programs have claimed National Championships in recent years. 

The Department, under Tymann's guidance, developed and implemented a new mission statement and pillars to accurately promote the vision and mission of Gordon Athletics. The five pillars of character, competition, faith, leadership, and service have been the foundation of what the Fighting Scots strive to represent on and off the field. The mission statement reads: Gordon Athletics exists to disciple student-athletes toward deep Christian faith and steadfast character while equipping them for service and leadership– all in the pursuit of 'Victory'. Jonathan Tymann has lived out this mission statement and has embodied the five pillars day in and day out.

Above all, his servant leadership and desire to do whatever necessary for the betterment of Fighting Scots' Nation will be the most treasured by the Gordon Community. Jonathan wore many hats throughout the years, most often behind the scenes in order to provide support to his coaches as well as a positive experience for the student-athletes. No task was 'below' him as the Director of Athletics; he countlessly stepped in on more than one occasion on game days, whether it be announcing, doing the scoreboard, acting as game administration, picking up trash, shoveling, or even ball running because he saw that there was a need. In a profession that can be self promoting, Jonathan has created a culture of sincerity, generosity, hard work, and selflessness. 

"I am humbled by all of the well wishes that I've received upon my announced retirement from Gordon College after 31 years and Gordon College Athletics for the last 14 years," said Tymann. "It means so much to me since over that time I have been blessed to connect with so many members in Fighting Scots Nation in a personal way through multiple different campus jobs. Special thanks to my phenomenal colleagues within the Athletic department for their hard work and dedication to our student-athletes on a daily basis. None of our progress would have been possible without their excellent work. God has steered my path for 62 years and I know that He will continue to do so until I'm called Home someday. I don't know what is next for my wife (she is also retiring on July 31st) and me, but we will take a deep breath, gather our diminished patience, grace, and energy, and listen for where God is calling us next. Hopefully it is by the beach and has a Dunkin's nearby. Thank you to all of you for our connections in the past and I look forward to our connections in the next phase going forward. Blessings and thank you again for a lifetime of memories flowing through my Christ-filled, Gordon and Barrington alumni, friends and families!"

Gordon College is committed to continuing the success of the athletic department. Brian Lane will serve as the Interim Director of Athletics while the College conducts a national search for a permanent Director of Athletics this coming year.

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NOTES TO JONATHAN TYMANN

President Michael D. Hammond, Ph.D. | Gordon College
"Jonathan Tymann has built the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics into an exemplary program that cultivates leadership, competitive excellence, and Christian character in Gordon College student-athletes. His commitment to Gordon has connected with thousands of students over the last 31 years through his roles in Student Life, Alumni and Parent Relations, Development, and Athletics. Jonathan's drive to work hard is only matched by his heart for Gordon students and friends. Many of us will miss seeing his warm smile and pride in the Fighting Scots, knowing of his commitment to the Gordon College mission."

Jennifer A. Skaggs, Ph.D. | Vice-President for Student Life, Gordon College
"Heartfelt gratitude isn't enough to begin to express Jonathan Tymann's extraordinary dedication and unwavering commitment to Gordon College through the many and varied roles he filled serving the college for many decades. As Athletic Director, Jon epitomized the true spirit of leadership, demonstrating compassion, resilience, and an unflagging pursuit of excellence both on and off the field. He fostered an environment that values Christ-directed character, integrity, and sportsmanship among the athletes, coaches, and supporters. His dedicated legacy has allowed generations of athletes to realize invaluable life skills that will endure far beyond their athletic pursuits."

Rick Sweeney | Vice President for Marketing and External Relations
"Jon's long tenure as athletic director was the perfect embodiment of his career at Gordon where he 'put the team first' —having served in many roles for the College over the years. As AD he always made sure student athletes and coaches were a priority in any discussion with senior leadership. His passion as a former Gordon athlete and parent were genuine and a true added value in his role as a leader."  

University of New England Director of Athletics Heather Davis
"Jon is such a thoughtful and humble leader who fosters community and lifts others up. I can recall many moments where I learned from his leadership and example. He'll certainly be missed in the CCC, but at the same time I am so happy for him and wish him a tremendous retirement."

Roger Williams Director of Athletics Kiki Jacobs
"I would like to congratulate Jon on his retirement.  He has been warm and welcoming from the moment I joined the CCC. He was always professional and thoughtful and could be counted on for a witty comment to lighten the mood. I wish Jon the best in his retirement. He will be missed around the Commonwealth Coast Conference table."

Endicott College Assistant Vice President Director of Athletics and Recreation Dr. Brian Wylie
"Jon will be missed. He is not only a great friend, but someone I've really enjoyed working with over the last 13 years. Too many times I've called upon Jon to bounce ideas, ask for guidance or just to hear the sound of his voice and his energetic and contagious laughter. As a long-time AD in the room, he was supremely respected by all. His presence will be missed amongst all the other Conference Athletics Directors for his thoughtful and analytical view and strategic lens for how best to provide student-athletes with the most positive and competitive experience as possible."

Wentworth Institute of Technology Senior Associate Athletic Director Bill Gorman
"I've had the pleasure of being a conference colleague of Jon Tymann since shortly after he became the director of athletics at Gordon. For me personally, Jon has not only been the consummate professional, but he's also been a friend and someone who I've always counted on to bounce things off of each other or just have a conversation to check in and see how things are going. Moving forward, it will be weird going to Gordon and/or a conference meeting and not see him and have the opportunity to laugh with each other. I wish he and his family nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement. Thank you for everything, Jon!"

Dr. Sybil Coleman | Social Work Program Director and Professor of Social Work/Social Welfare
"Jon is a living testament of what a devoted, enthusiastic, and caring person looks like. He wore many hats such as supporting and encouraging his coaches, warmly welcoming students in his office, scheduling events, ordering equipment, budgeting, and faithfully attending games. He gracefully adapted to a wide range of situations often completing menial tasks for the good of a sports team before an event. Jon was flexible, focused and strove to strengthen the Athletic Program at Gordon for long term success. He will be sorely missed!"

Cory Ward | Gordon College Associate Athletic Director
"I have had the best seat in the house for Jon's 14 years in athletics. I have been mentored by someone who I love deeply and will be forever grateful to for the example he has set. In a profession full of egos, Jon has taught me how to serve humbly, listen well, and always do what is best for the student-athletes, the coaches, and Gordon College. I unexpectedly lost my father in the spring of 2019 and since that day Jon has quietly filled a role in my life that I desperately needed. He exemplified a strong Christian man who quietly did whatever was necessary for those he loved. I am forever grateful to you Jon and as I said once before, 'Well done, good and faithful servant'."

Chuck Breton | Gordon College Women's Soccer Coach and Former GCMS Teammate of Jon's 
"I've worked for numerous managers  over the years and no one comes close to Jon's level of professionalism, integrity and support! A true servant leaders heart and blessed with great wisdom. Jon's success and his ability to get the most from the people in his care was due to his genuine love for them as people first and employees second. In fact I would say he never viewed them as employees at all but always thought of them as more important than himself. Jon was so much more than a boss, he was a great friend and brother in Christ! We had countless conversations about our faith and how we could honor God in our lives as men, husbands, fathers and coaches! And he always led with a great sense of humor!"

Peter Amadon | Former Gordon College Assistant Athletic Director and Men's and Women's Tennis Head Coach
"In a time when servant leadership became less prevalent and more needed than ever, Jon led Gordon Athletics as a faithful servant. Jon always put the athletes first, followed closely by his staff, then the college as whole, and finally his own needs and desires at the bottom. This is the epitome of Christ-like leadership, as expressed by Paul in Philippians 2:3 – "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Jon's selflessness impacted hundreds of student athletes each year, and thousands over his career at Gordon. I am deeply appreciative of the 10 years I spent working with Jon. He was always willing to listen, always seeking to find new ways to improve the athletic experiences of our teams. He was our best fan, giving up his nights and weekends to support all our teams through our successes and our struggles. As a coach he was a consistent source of support and encouragement. As a fellow administrator, he was a tremendous captain of the group, willing to listen to all ideas and steadfastly guide the department. Jon allowed me to completely invest in my student athletes. When I became an assistant director of athletics, he further allowed me to work on behalf of all student athletes and my fellow coaches. Great leaders allow those in their care to flourish by providing support and room to grow. Jon never micromanaged nor pressured me. He listened and advised wisely, expressed his support and always asked how he could help. He cared deeply about my family and my personal well-being, as our relationship was far more than an employee and manager. I am deeply grateful for my experiences at Gordon as a coach and administrator, and I owe much to Jon as a faithful mentor and servant leader. I am thrilled for Jon and Carlene as they start the next chapter of their lives together!"

Bess Watson | Former Gordon College Assistant Athletic Director and Women's Soccer Assistant Coach
"I'm so blessed to have been a member of the Gordon Athletic Department under Jon's guidance. Through good and trying times, Jon modeled daily the true meaning of servant leadership, always willing to do whatever it took to humbly serve God, the College, the coaches, and each of the student-athletes. It's rare to find someone in that position who serves without ego or personal interest, but Jon did. The College was fortunate to have him among its ranks all these years and his absence will be deeply felt. From boss to mentor to dear friend and confidant, I'm grateful to Jon for all the ways in which he has impacted my life and thrilled for him as he moves on to enjoy his much-deserved retirement."

Luckson Dambo '22 | Men's Soccer
"Huge congratulations to Jon Tymann on a job well done - for so many years! We love everything you did for Gordon College Athletics. Now go do what you love for you!"

Sabrina Jandreau '20 | Field Hockey & Women's Lacrosse
"Jon's unwavering commitment to Gordon College, the Commonwealth Coast Conference, and Gordon College Athletics cannot be understated; wherever you turn, you can always find Jon supporting Fighting Scots in the classroom, on the field, or as post-graduates pursuing professional success. As a student-athlete who has previously worked with Jon through the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, both through Gordon Athletics and the Commonwealth Coast Conference, I can say with confidence that he has inspired so many athletes to grow both interpersonally and athletically. He will be deeply missed by Gordon College Athletics, and I am fortunate to have had the pleasure to work with him both on and off the field."

Patrick Tevenan '22 | Baseball
"Mr. Tymann is a great man with a big heart. Having a conversation with him and seeing him smile can brighten anyone's day. I would like to thank him for his service to school, and the athletic department - he cared so deeply about his athletes. I wish him and his family all the best, and hope he fully enjoys his retirement."

Abby Vampatella '21 | Women's Basketball
"Having Mr. Tymann as my athletic director for four years enhanced my Gordon experience tenfold, particularly my senior year. In a year full of stress and uncertainty due to COVID, he made sure to care for the student-athlete body and hear our concerns. He helped create a competitive outlet in the Scots Olympics, and fought for us to have a season. When our shortened season commenced, he sent our team a text on how proud he was, and called us after reiterating how we made the whole department proud. He creatively navigated a way for seniors to still be honored for their impactful careers.  He became a wonderful mentor for me as I tried to figure out life after graduation, and guided me with wisdom and discretion. Mr. Tymann is loved by everyone because of the compassion, kindness, and care for each person he interacts with. He knows each student-athlete by name. He shows Jesus in every way. Mr. Tymann, you have blessed so many people over your time at Gordon. I can't thank you enough, and this retirement is more than deserved!"