I am extremely disappointed to hear of Chris Huggan’s dismissal as the director of Athletics and Recreation at UPEI. As a proud alumnus, I find this decision inconceivable.
Despite his impressive list of program enhancements, events, community engagement, regional and national partnership building, athletic program achievements, and innovative approaches to branding and fundraising, I can make an even stronger case for Chris by what I know about his character.
Chris has literally poured his life into this position over the last six years. Chris lives and breathes UPEI athletics and his passion for the job is contagious. I went years without hearing much about UPEI sports, only to find myself attending games on visits home, watching online as UPEI teams excelled regionally and nationally, and contributing to innovative fundraising activities. I even attended UPEI basketball games in my home city of Fredericton. Guess who I would see in the stands supporting his teams while on the road? Chris, who would tell me how proud he was of all the UPEI teams! He was a constant support to athletes – airport pickups, local tours, moving in/out or whatever else they needed. At community events, Chris was excited to introduce the athletes. I have seen him answer calls from students and staff at all hours, no matter what else was going on. He treated them like family.
Chris also made us excited to visit the UPEI facilities when in Charlottetown – from the aquatics centre to kids’ summer camps.
Chris has been a constant ambassador for the University and I have heard praise about his accomplishments, not just from those in P.E.I. familiar with his enthusiasm, but from others in Atlantic Canada that recognize his incredible achievements. Chris constantly shares ideas to improve programs, facilities and events, and is keen to seek the opinions of others. Chris is open minded, enthusiastic, intelligent, hardworking and a true leader.
I find it hard to imagine a more qualified candidate for this position, but even if there were, there is certainly no match for the passion which Chris has devoted to the UPEI Athletics and Recreation program!
Brad McKnight,
Fredericton, N.B.
