Clarksville, Ark. – Dr. Deborah Sisson, University of the Ozarks associate professor of business and Baum Professor of Marketing, has been appointed the University's new faculty athletics representative (FAR).

Sisson, who has taught at Ozarks since 2003, will serve as a liaison between the institution and the athletics program. Additionally, she will also be tasked with representing Ozarks in relations with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the American Southwest Conference (ASC).

"I am honored to be asked by President Dunsworth to serve as FAR," said Dr. Sisson. "I have always been a supporter of our student-athletes and appreciate the work they put in the classroom and on the field of play. NCAA Division III athletes strive to succeed both academically and athletically. The demands on the student-athlete to manage class work and athletics are countless. Being asked to serve as their advocate is an honor and a privilege. The athletic staff at Ozarks is dedicated to our mission, as am I. Working together with faculty, we can prepare our students to live life fully."    

Sisson earned bachelor degrees from Lyon College and University of Central Arkansas, an MBA from UCA and a DBA in marketing from Nova Southeastern University in 2015.

The University recently welcomed more than 350 student-athletes to campus. Ozarks competes as a member of NCAA Division III and the ASC and offers 20 varsity sports.

"Dr. Sisson is a respected faculty member who possesses a commitment to the University's student-athlete model," said Athletics Director Jimmy Clark. "As a former collegiate student-athlete, she understands the characteristics it takes to be successful in the classroom and in competition. She has already created positive experiences for our student-athletes and I know she will continue to be an advocate for our student-athletes.  I look forward to working with her as we continue to advance our athletics program."

Dr. Sisson has served as an advisor for Phi Beta Lambda, Students in Free Enterprise and Ozarks Alliance during her tenure. Dr. Sisson has also served as the Chair of the Clarksville Advertising and Promotion Commission.

The fundamental responsibilities of the FAR are to evaluate and ensure the academic integrity of the intercollegiate athletics program, to facilitate institutional control of athletics, and to enhance the student-athlete experience.

Dr. Sisson succeeds Dr. Mark Scully, who served as the FAR during the 2017 spring semester and 2017-2018 academic year.