HOUGHTON, N.Y. — Houghton University Athletics today announced that Patrick Hager has resigned from his role as Director of Cross Country and Track & Field to accept a new position with the University as Director of the Office of Vocation and Calling.

Austin Beauregard will continue to serve as head coach of the track & field programs, while Hager will also continue to assist the distance runners this spring. Houghton will begin a national search for a new head coach for the cross country programs in the coming days.

Hager has served Houghton athletics with distinction since joining the Highlander coaching staff in 2014. Over his tenure, he built the cross country and track & field programs to among the top programs in the Empire 8, leading both men's and women's teams to historic achievements and consistent improvement in the competitive landscape of NCAA Division III athletics. Under his leadership, Houghton's cross country squads more than doubled in size and secured multiple Empire 8 titles, including the women's team's first-ever conference championship in 2019 and the men's program's championship breakthrough in 2023. Hager's athletes have earned numerous Empire 8 individual titles and All-Regional honors, helping elevate Houghton's profile within the conference and region.

Hager was named E8 Women's Cross Country Coach of the Year in 2019 and secured the same honor with the men's program in 2023.

The last two years have also seen Houghton athletes garner their first five individual NCAA championship appearances (two in cross country, three in track and field).

"We are grateful for Pat's vision, leadership, and deep commitment to our student-athletes," said Director of Athletics Matthew Webb. "His influence extended far beyond competition — he helped shape a culture of excellence, faith, and character that will have a lasting impact on our programs and campus community."

A certified strength and conditioning specialist with U.S. Track & Field Level I and II endurance coaching certifications, Hager holds a master's degree in Higher Education with a concentration in College Athletics Management from Messiah University.

"It has been one of the greatest joys of my life to serve Houghton University and the student-athletes, for as long as I did," said Hager. "I'm proud of what we accomplished together, and especially the relational bonds that were a product of our time together. I'll be excited to remain a strong supporter of Houghton Athletics, and serve the greater Houghton student body in my new role."

In his new role, Hager will work collaboratively across campus to assist students in achieving their academic, personal, and career goals.