ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Eckerd's Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR), Dr. Anthony Brunello, has announced his retirement for the end of the school year.
Dr. Brunello, a Professor of Political Science, has been the Tritons' Faculty Athletic Representative for 19 years. He was named a finalist for the Dr. Dave Pariser Faculty Mentor Award in 2014 and 2025. In 2015, he was named the Sunshine State Conference FAR of the Year.
"For nearly two decades, Tony Brunello has been the gold standard for Faculty Athletic Representatives in our conference. His unwavering commitment to student-athletes and his courageous honesty in celebrating our successes while challenging us to grow have shaped our program. While we'll miss his insight and presence, we're grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement," stated Director of Athletics, Tom Ryan '87.
At Eckerd, he has received the Grover Wrenn Award for Leadership and Service to General Education, the John M. Bevan Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership Award, the John Satterfield Outstanding Mentor Award, and the Tritons Professor of the Year.
Dr. Brunello leads the Intercollegiate Athletics Committee (IAC) at Eckerd, where he helps review and amend the philosophy and policies of the athletics department, and aligns the athletics program with the college's mission. Through his work with IAC, Brunello spearheaded the "Life After Eckerd" event, which includes organizing alumni panels and networking events, providing graduating seniors with valuable insights and connections as they transition into their professional lives.
Under his guidance, the Tritons have achieved remarkable academic success, receiving the prestigious NCAA Presidents' Award for academic excellence for 14 consecutive years. Eckerd is one of just seven schools to receive the Presidents' Award every year since its inception. The Tritons also produced a department-record 3.54 grade-point average this fall.
Dr. Brunello has profoundly impacted the lives of students at Eckerd College, exemplifying the NCAA Division II core values of learning, passion, service, resourcefulness, sportsmanship, and balance. Brunello's passion for athletics is evident as he actively supports the Tritons, attending events and sharing updates with faculty, which enhances the community and encourages meaningful conversations with student-athletes. His enthusiastic presence at games exemplifies sportsmanship, inspiring students and faculty.
Professor Brunello actively demonstrates mentorship for student-athletes at Eckerd College through various initiatives aimed at supporting their academic and personal growth, including hosting an event for all first-year student-athletes during their first week of classes each year to introduce them to resources and strategies for success in college life.
