BRYN MAWR, PA – Bryn Mawr College has announced the appointment of
Katie Tarr as its next Director of Athletics & Physical Education, removing the interim title and formally entrusting her with the leadership of the Owls' athletics program.
Tarr steps into the role following a year of service as interim director, where she provided steady leadership and continuity during a period of transition for the department. First named to the interim position in July 2025, she guided Bryn Mawr Athletics while continuing her longstanding commitment to student-athlete success and departmental operations.
A familiar and respected leader within the Bryn Mawr community, Tarr brings more than two decades of experience at the College to her new role. She has served as Senior Woman Administrator since 2009 and was promoted to Associate Athletic Director in 2016, overseeing key areas including facilities, game operations, sports medicine, communications, and strength and conditioning.
"Katie has demonstrated a transformative vision for our athletic department," said Interim Dean of the Undergraduate College Tomiko Jenkins. "One that centers on a 'championship mindset' while remaining deeply rooted in the College's mission of academic excellence and student empowerment."
Before transitioning into administration, Tarr built a distinguished coaching career at Bryn Mawr. She served as head lacrosse coach from 2003 to 2016, leading the program to sustained success and achieving the highest winning percentage for the program in more than two decades. She also served as head basketball coach for five seasons and contributed as an assistant field hockey coach, demonstrating a broad impact across multiple programs.
As a former student-athlete at Swarthmore College, Tarr was a standout multi-sport competitor, earning all-conference honors and setting a Centennial Conference record for career goals in lacrosse. She was later inducted into the Swarthmore Athletics Hall of Fame, reflecting her excellence both on and off the field.
Throughout her career at Bryn Mawr, Tarr has been widely recognized for her dedication to fostering a holistic student-athlete experience—one that emphasizes academic achievement, leadership development, and personal growth. Her leadership has also contributed to key departmental initiatives, including facility enhancements and fundraising efforts in support of athletics.
In her new role, Tarr will oversee all aspects of Bryn Mawr's NCAA Division III athletics program, which competes in the Centennial Conference and Mid Atlantic Rowing Conference and offers a broad range of varsity sports for Owl student-athletes.
With Tarr at the helm, Bryn Mawr Athletics is poised to continue its tradition of competitive excellence, academic success, and a student-centered approach that reflects the College's mission.