McLean County Times

Cindy Harris, the Executive Associate Athletic Director for Compliance and Student Services at Illinois State, has been named the 2025 South Central Region Administrator of the Year. This recognition comes as part of the annual regional awards from The Women's Collegiate Gymnastics Association (WCGA).

According to the WCGA, the awards acknowledge excellence and leadership across coaching, athletic performance, and administration within gymnastics. The award for Sport Administrator of the Year highlights administrators who have significantly impacted their gymnastics programs and institutions. These individuals are selected through a regional head coach vote.

"These awards are a meaningful reflection of the dedication, innovation, and passion that define collegiate gymnastics," stated Casey Jo MacPherson, Chair of the WCGA Board of Directors. "We are thrilled to honor this year's recipients and celebrate the impact they've had on their teams, institutions, and the broader gymnastics community."

With 12 years of experience in gymnastics, Harris is committed to elevating Illinois State's gymnastics program to new heights. She collaborates closely with Head Coach Bob Conkling and the Redbird staff to enhance the resources and support available to their gymnasts, aiming for championship victories and NCAA competition advancement.

Beyond her role at Illinois State, Harris has been a member of the NCAA Women's Gymnastics Committee for six years. This committee is responsible for overseeing various aspects of collegiate gymnastics, including rule changes, equipment issues, and championship event operations, ensuring quality championship events and managing business operations related to the sport.

In 2025, the Illinois State gymnastics team achieved significant success, finishing in the top 40 of the final Road To Nationals team rankings. The Redbirds also clinched the Midwest Independent Conference Championship for the second time in three seasons, and three gymnasts—seniors Jaye Mack, Alana Laster, and Sara Wabi—qualified for the NCAA Regionals in Washington.

For the latest updates on Illinois State gymnastics, fans can visit GoRedbirds.com or follow the team on Instagram, X, and Facebook.