Holly Gera, director of Intercollegiate Athletics, received the Garden State Award presented by the Collegiate Athletic Administrators of New Jersey (CAANJ). The presentation was made Oct. 11 at the CAANJ Luncheon in Somerset.

The Garden State Award is given annually to an individual who has made substantial and enduring contributions to the development of intercollegiate athletics in the state. Gera is the second Montclair State administrator to be chosen for the award. Former Athletic Director William Dioguardi received the award in 1986.

"I am touched and honored to be included in the company of past Garden State Award winners," Gera said at the ceremony. "From the first recipient, Dr. Mary Rice in 1984, to last year's awardee, Flo Labenski, the list represents a veritable history of college athletics in New Jersey. I respect and admire the past award winners for their dedication, loyalty and sense of service to intercollegiate athletics."

Gregory Waters (pictured above with Gera), vice president for Institutional Advancement, is pleased Gera's hard work and contributions are recognized throughout New Jersey. "Everyone at Montclair State knows what an excellent job Holly does in athletics, but it is always terrific when others in the state acknowledge the importance of her contributions as well," he said. "In this field, competition is a way of life. To be honored by New Jersey's finest is a distinction of significant proportions."

Gera began at Montclair State as director of Campus Recreation in 1989. She is responsible for several positive developments within the athletics department, such as the upgrade of many facilities including new scoreboards, fencing and bleachers.

"For me, the most rewarding aspect of this profession is the opportunity to get to know so many wonderful people," Gera said. "Year in and year out I meet some terrific young people. It is a privilege to work with talented student-athletes who are motivated, enthusiastic and talented. It is a tremendous experience to watch freshmen grow and mature through their college years. Hopefully somewhere along that route they learn something about being a good person and a good citizen."

A graduate of Montclair State and Penn State universities, Gera is also involved with many NCAA committees, including her nationally recognized work with softball, and is a strong advocate of physical education and women’s awareness groups.

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