The Collegiate Women Sports Awards (CWSA) presented by Honda announced today the appointment of Noreen Morris as its next Executive Director, succeeding Chris Voelz, who will retire on September 1, 2026, following a distinguished 14-year tenure marked by transformational growth and expanded national visibility. Morris was selected following a comprehensive national search led by The PICTOR Group.

Morris joins the CWSA from the NEC, where she has served as Commissioner since 2010, bringing extensive experience in conference leadership, governance, and strategic development. A highly respected voice in intercollegiate athletics, she has championed initiatives that enhance the student-athlete experience and advance opportunities for women’s sports, including expanded championship visibility, leadership development, and a continued commitment to gender equity. Her impact extends nationally through her leadership and advocacy on key committees and organizations, including the NCAA Access, Opportunity and Impact Committee, NCAA Gender Equity Task Force, Women’s Sports Foundation Advocacy Committee, Women Leaders, CWSA Board of Directors, and the Division I Leadership Council.

“Noreen is a dynamic and visionary leader whose deep experience and commitment to student-athlete success align seamlessly with the mission of the CWSA,” said Patty Viverito, CWSA Board Chair. “As we celebrate the CWSA’s 50th anniversary, her ability to foster meaningful partnerships and drive strategic growth makes her exceptionally well-suited to guide the organization into its next chapter.”

At the CWSA, Morris will prioritize elevating the organization’s national profile while expanding opportunities to engage student-athletes, alumnae, and partners. As the CWSA celebrates 50 years of honoring the “best of the best” in women’s collegiate athletics, her leadership and background in long-term planning position her to build on that legacy. Her focus will be on strengthening financial sustainability, enhancing signature events and storytelling platforms, and further activating a strong network of corporate, media, and advocacy partners.

“CWSA embodies everything that’s positive and transformational about women’s collegiate athletics, and I’m incredibly honored to be selected to lead the CWSA and continue the legacy of Judie Holland and Chris Voelz,” said Morris. “I’d like to thank Patty Viverito and the rest of the CWSA Board for their faith in me to lead this prestigious organization into the future. I look forward to working closely with the Board, sponsors, student-athletes, and the broader collegiate athletics community to ensure that CWSA continues to inspire, celebrate excellence and make a lasting impact.”

Morris will assume her role following Voelz’s retirement in September and will help guide the organization into its next era.