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David Paitson is the current director of athletics at Lake Superior State University. David has held this position since September 2017. Prior to that, they were the director of athletics at Lake Superior State University from September 2017 to August 2021. In this role, they were responsible for overseeing 12 intercollegiate varsity sports, including D-I hockey and 11 D-II sports. David also facilitated the men's ice hockey program transition into the reconstituted Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). In addition, they were tasked with CCHA branding, including the new conference logo.

Under Paitson's leadership, the athletic department has seen significant improvements, both in terms of classroom results and athletic achievement. Classroom results have included a cumulative student-athlete GPA increase from 3.06 to 3.32. Athletically, the men’s basketball team qualified for the 2017-18 NCAA Division II Tournament. The 2018-19 men’s hockey team posted the program’s most wins (23) since the 1995-96 season and claimed the first Great Lakes Invitational Championship in program history. In 2020-21, Laker hockey won its first WCHA Championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 25 years.

In addition to these accomplishments, Paitson has also been responsible for several facility improvements, including the installation of LED lighting, a new Zamboni, resurfacing of two outdoor tennis courts, and improvements

David Paitson's educational career began with a Bachelor's degree in Sports Administration from St. Thomas University. David then went on to earn their Masters in Marketing & Communications from Franklin University. Finally, they earned their Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Sam Houston State University. Additionally, David Paitson holds certifications from the CITI Program in Responsible Conduct of Research and Non-Health Related Research.

Their manager is Rodney S. Hanley, President. Some of their coworkers include Lynn Gillette - Provost & VP, Academic Affairs, Steven Betz - Government Relations Officer, and Thomas Coates - Executive Director of the Foundation.