Houghton College Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics H. "Skip" Lord was elected as the new second Vice President for the Empire 8 Conference, effective July 1, 2015.
 
"It is an honor to have the privilege of serving the wonderful administrators, coaches and student-athletes that comprise the Empire 8," said Lord. "This is an amazing group of high-quality institutions. We are proud to be part of it and look forward to great things ahead."

Kim Fierke, the Director of Athletics at Hartwick College was elected first Vice President, having served Empire 8 as the second Vice President for the last three academic years.

"Skip brings a great wealth and variety of experience to the Empire 8 as Second Vice-President," said Chuck Mitrano, E8 commissioner. "He has quickly become a highly respected leader within our conference and I look forward to working with him and Kim in this role."
 
Professional Bio of Kim Fierke • Director of Athletics, Hartwick College
 
Professional Bio of H. "Skip" Lord • Director of Athletics, Houghton College
 
The full members of the Empire 8 – Alfred University, Elmira College, Hartwick College, Houghton College, Ithaca College, Nazareth College, St. John Fisher College, Stevens Institute of Technology and Utica College are committed first and foremost to the pursuit of academic excellence and aspire to be regarded as an outstanding NCAA Division III conference. The membership seeks to distinguish itself among its peer group for its quality institutions, spirited and sportsmanlike competition, outstanding services and highly ethical policies and practices. Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the Empire 8.