The 2025 NJCAA Loyalty Award

Loyalty Award

The Loyalty Award is given to an active athletic director in the NJCAA membership that has worked to uphold the ideals of the organization. Significant to this award is leadership in an athletic program exemplifying excellence both on the field/court and in the classroom. To view a list of past winners, visit: Loyalty Award Past Winners

Jay Mehrhoff – East Central College (MO)

Jay Mehrhoff has been a part of East Central College for 28 years, 22 of those have been in his role as Director of Athletics. The beginning of his story at ECC started on the soccer field as he was the head coach of the Men's Soccer team from 1997-2000. Mehrhoff's presence on the field helped to lead them to national notoriety. His impact on athletics began to trickle down to education rapidly as he was named as a physical education instructor in 2000.

Mehrhoff values the student-athlete and aims to provide the best experience and opportunities for them all. As an active part of both athletics and academics, the decision was clear for ECC. In 2003, Mehrhoff was named the college's athletic director, changing the course of the athletic department for years to come.

"Over his tenure at East Central College, Dr. Mehrhoff has been a tireless advocate for our student-athletes. From working to expand athletic opportunities at ECC to chalking the fields and everything in between, he has focused on doing whatever is necessary to help our students grow and succeed," said Dr. Jon Bauer, East Central College President.

Since taking on the role of Athletic Director, the athletic department has reaped the benefits. New sports have been added while improvements to facilities have been consistent. The quality of sports performance of ECC has evolved as they won more championships and made more appearances to NJCAA National Tournaments. Mehrhoff's leadership goes beyond ECC as he has helped lead the Missouri Community College Athletic Conference since 2003, serving as their Vice President from 2003 to 2005 and President from 2005 to 2020 as well as serving as the chair for NJCAA Division II Men's Soccer Committee.

"No vision has been too grand, and no task has been too small. He epitomizes what the NJCAA Loyalty Award is all about," Bauer said.

For all 2025 NJCAA Honors and Annual Award Winners, visit: 2024-25 NJCAA Award Winners

For all NJCAA Honors, please visit: NJCAA Honors Home