The VOICE DAC
Directors Advisory Council
Setting Standards, Solving Challenges
The Directors Advisory Council (DAC) is a group of collegiate esports directors who meet monthly to address key issues and set standards for the space. The DAC has played a major role in shaping policy such as prize pools in collegiate esports, and was instrumental in developing the VOICE Esports Program Rubric. Their leadership helps guide best practices across the industry.
In addition to policy work, the DAC directs research on key topics, ensuring that VOICE’s initiatives are informed by real data and the needs of the collegiate community. Their efforts continue to drive structure and sustainability in the space.
Directors Advisory Council
Volunteers
Aaron Kapiko
Rutgers University
Adam Schuler
Cleveland State University
Adam Stanley
Brewton-Parker College
Adrienne McIntire
Midland University
Alex Grossman
College of DuPage
Alexander Raff
Brooklyn College
Andrew Garza
Central Maine Community College
Andrew Murphy
Northwest Missouri State University
Andrew Ross
University of South Florida
Anon Rowland
Caldwell University
Anthony Mcintosh
Grays Harbor College
Ben Counts
Kansas State University
Benjamin Katz
Rollins College
Brent Shepherd
Centralia College
Brett Sheldon
Lakeland University
Bryan Hummel
Fisher College
Caleb Spitzer
Eastern Wyoming College
Chase Neukam
St. Cloud State University
Chris Funston
St. Clair College
Chris Griebenow
UC San Diego
Chris Lamarucciola
Conestoga College
Christopher Bilski
Michigan State University
Christopher Turner
Southern University
Cody Elsen
NC State
Colin Graham
University of Missouri
Curt Kimm
Coe College
Daniel Nowaczyk
Kettering University
David Dickert
University of Southern Mississippi
David Kirk
Illinois State University
Diane Lapierre
Assumption Esports
Doc Haskell
Boise State University
Dylan Gentilcore
University of Wisconsin, River Falls
Dylan Wray
University of North Texas
Ethan Valentine
Minot State University
Eugene Frier
Texas Wesleyan University
Glen Tokola
University of Washington
Harley Adler
Marywood University
Henry Johnston
Baker College
Hubert Whan Tong
Simpson College
James Basta
University at Buffalo
James Davis
Miami University
Jason Smethers
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Joe Mazzara
Wichita State University
Joel Harvey
Columbia Basin College
Joey Gawrysiak
Syracuse University
John Macone
University at Albany
John McDermot
University of Mississippi
John Price
Ohio State University
John Turbessi
Northeastern University
Jonathan Baadsgaard
University of St. Thomas
Josh Sides
Winthrop University
Joshua Buchanan
University of Texas at Dallas
Julia Cardillo
Pace University
Kaitlin Teniente
St. Mary’s University
Karen Ruggles
DeSales University
Kenneth Kresina
University of Wisconson, Green Bay
Kevin Palmer
University of Michigan
Kyle Jenkins
Ohio Wesleyan University
Kyle Murto
Blinn College
Lucas Hayworth
TBA
Luke Theis
Central Michigan University
Mathew Corfee
Mercyhurst University
Michael Cassens
University of Montana
Michele King
William & Mary University
Mitch Greenwell
Bellarmine University
Nathan Duke
Butler University
Noah Antor
Davenport University
Noah Janssen
Landmark College
Riley Long
Grand Valley State University
Roy Escobedo
Hill College
Sari Kitelyn
Full Sail University
Shaun Byrne
St. Clair College
Sunny Yen
University of California, Los Angeles
Travis Isbell
Michigan Technological University
Travis Yang
Syracuse University
Tristan Supples
Bridgewater College
Troy Chiefari
Ohio Northern University
Truman Benz
Monroe Community College
Tyler Hetherington
Fanshawe College
Tyler Pauly
Concordia University, St. Paul
Victor L Castro
Army West Point
Zachary Roberson
Miami University
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to know more about...
About VOICE
What is VOICE and what does it stand for?
VOICE (Voice of Intercollegiate Esports) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing collegiate esports across North America. VOICE acts as an advocacy and research body, providing guidance and resources to universities, individuals, and organizations involved in esports. It aims to promote collaboration and sustainability in the collegiate esports ecosystem.
How does VOICE support the collegiate esports ecosystem?
VOICE plays an important role in shaping the future of collegiate esports by creating program standards, providing valuable resources, and facilitating discussions among key stakeholders. Through its advisory councils, VOICE brings together industry leaders to develop best practices create pathways for growth within esports programs at colleges and universities.
Who are the key stakeholders in VOICE?
The key stakeholders in VOICE include university administrators, esports directors, coaches, and students. Additionally, VOICE works closely with industry partners to promote the development of collegiate esports programs and enhance the overall experience for participants.
What are VOICE's main goals for collegiate esports?
VOICE’s main goals are to build unified standards for collegiate esports, support program growth through research, and advocate on behalf of higher education institutions.
Does VOICE offer competitive esports events?
VOICE does not directly organize or host competitive esports events.
Advisory Councils
What is the role of VOICE’s advisory councils?
VOICE’s advisory councils serve as strategic bodies that provide guidance and recommendations on key issues within collegiate esports. These councils, which include Presidents and Directors, help shape policies, ensure alignment with industry standards, and advocate for the growth and sustainability of esports programs across colleges and universities.
What are the different types of advisory councils in VOICE?
VOICE has several advisory councils that focus on different aspects of collegiate esports. These include the Presidents Advisory Council, which provides strategic direction from university leadership, and the Directors Advisory Council, which focuses on the operational needs and best practices for esports programs.
Where can I learn more about VOICE advisory councils?
You can learn more about VOICE's advisory councils by clicking on the "About VOICE" dropdown in the menu bar.
Membership
How can my institution join VOICE?
Institutions can join VOICE by becoming part of the Presidents Advisory Council (PAC), which includes university Presidents and Chancellors who help guide the future of collegiate esports. Membership at the presidential level gives institutions a voice in shaping research, policy, and advocacy efforts in the collegiate esports space. PAC members see their voices heard through bi-annual summits and direct input for our Board of Directors and staff to enact change in the collegiate esports ecosystem.
What benefits does my institution receive by joining VOICE?
By joining VOICE through the PAC, your institution will have the opportunity to influence strategic decisions regarding standards, governance, and the academic alignment of esports. This provides the opportunity to directly influence the growth of collegiate esports and shape the strategic direction of the industry alongside other heads of leading universities.
Is there a membership fee for institutions?
Yes, there is an annual contribution required for institutions that join the Presidents Advisory Council (PAC). These contributions help fund VOICE’s research initiatives, development of policy solutions, and advocacy efforts aimed at strengthening collegiate esports programs.
Can individual programs or directors join VOICE?
VOICE focuses its membership at the presidential level, meaning that individual programs or directors do not have direct membership access. However, Directors can join the conversation for free by joining the VOICE Directors Advisory Council.
How can I learn more about joining the Presidents Advisory Council?
To learn more about joining the PAC, reach out directly to our team at contact@voicecollegiate.org. We are actively seeking new institutional leaders to help guide the direction of collegiate esports and invite those interested in supporting our mission to connect with us.
Research
What kind of research does VOICE conduct?
VOICE conducts IRB-approved and non-IRB-approved research focused on systemic issues within collegiate esports. This includes exploring topics such as governance, eligibility standards, the student-athlete outcomes, and the impact of esports on academic success. The research aims to provide data-driven insights that will help shape the future of collegiate esports.
Where can I access VOICE’s research reports and findings?
VOICE’s research reports and findings are shared through our website, email newsletters, and at VOICE events. These findings are also used to guide discussions within our advisory councils and other industry partnerships.
How can my program participate in VOICE’s research?
Your program can participate in VOICE’s research initiatives by submitting data through the VEPSI process and engaging in any of our ongoing studies or surveys.
Scholastic Esports Awards
What is the Scholastic Esports Awards?
The Scholastic Esports Awards (SEA) is VOICE's national convention that brings together collegiate esports professionals, university leaders, students, and industry. It celebrates excellence in collegiate and k-12 esports, providing a platform for networking and sharing best practices.
When are the Awards?
The Scholastic Esports Awards takes place annually in early January.
Where can I learn more about the Scholastic Esports Awards?
For more information about the SEA and National Convention, including event details and registration, visit the SEA Convention page on our website. You can also sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on dates, speakers, and event opportunities.