NEWBURGH, N.Y. – Mount Saint Mary College is proud to announce the appointment of Samantha Howe as the college's new Director of Athletics, effective Monday, October 6.
 
Howe, a respected figure within the Mount community for more than a decade, will transition from her current role as Associate Athletic Director while also continuing to serve as the department's Senior Woman Administrator. She succeeds Shane Bell '06, who recently accepted a position as Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director at the Army West Point Athletic Association.
 
"I want to thank Shane Bell for his leadership and dedication to our athletics program. I am also grateful to President Gervasi for trusting me with this opportunity," Howe said. "I look forward to building on the strong foundation in place and continuing to support the success of our student-athletes."
 
Howe brings a wealth of experience and familiarity to the role, having served as the college's Associate Athletic Director during the 2024–25 academic year. Howe has been an integral part of the Mount community since 2013, serving in various capacities including working in Student Financial Services, and coaching both as Assistant and then Head Softball Coach. Most recently, she excelled as the Associate Athletic Director, where she worked closely with the previous administration.
 
As head coach of the Knights' softball team from 2013 to 2019, Howe guided the program to a Skyline Conference Championship in 2018 while compiling a 92-91-1 overall record, including a dominant 63-25 mark in league play.

Assistant Athletic Director Mike Lowell expressed his enthusiasm for Howe's appointment. "After working alongside Sam for many years, I know firsthand that she is deserving of this role," Lowell said. "I am looking forward to her taking Mount athletics to the next level."