CLEVELAND - The Division III Commissioners Association (DIIICA) announces the recipients of the Daniel T. Dutcher Meritorious Service Award as Steve Briggs, President at Berry College, and Jeff Martinez, director of athletics at the University of Redlands, as the recipients of the 2025 Dan Dutcher Meritorious Service Award. 

About Steve Briggs
As President of Berry College for 19 years, Dr. Steve Briggs has been a transformative force in collegiate athletics, leaving an enduring legacy both at Berry College and across the Southern Athletic Association (SAA). Dr. Briggs led Berry College's transition to NCAA Division III, a move that aligned with the college's educational mission and enhanced the experience for Berry's student-athletes.

Under his leadership, Berry successfully navigated the rigorous transition to Division III, strengthening its commitment to a balanced academic and athletic experience. During his tenure, Berry College added nine new varsity sports, enabling broader athletic participation and increased opportunities for students. These additions diversified Berry's athletics offerings and reinforced the college's dedication to student engagement and development. Dr. Briggs also oversaw significant upgrades to Berry's athletics facilities, ensuring state-of-the-art resources that reflect the college's commitment to excellence. These enhancements have not only supported student-athletes but have also fostered school spirit, positively impacting the broader Berry community.

Dr. Briggs played an instrumental role in establishing the SAA as a founding member, building a strong Division III conference that prioritizes student-centered values and competitive integrity. His service on the NCAA Management Council exemplifies his dedication to the national collegiate landscape, where he has consistently advocated for the Division III mission. Through his contributions at the NCAA level, he has represented the needs of student-athletes, fostering an environment that values personal and academic growth.

Dr. Briggs' leadership, vision, and dedication to Division III ideals make him a highly deserving candidate for the DIIICA Meritorious Service Award. His career reflects an unwavering commitment to fostering athletic and academic excellence, both at Berry College and beyond. His efforts have created a lasting impact that will continue to benefit Berry, the SAA, and the Division III community for years to come.

About Jeff Martinez
Jeff Martinez began his tenure at Redlands in 1983 as the head athletic trainer, served as the Bulldogs' inaugural women's golf coach, and has led the athletics department since 2000. He recently announced his retirement, effective May 23, 2025.

Over the past 40 years, Martinez has made substantial contributions to student-athletes, colleagues, and the community. He served on the NCAA Management Council from 2009-13, including as chair in 2012-13, and on the NCAA Championships Committee from 2007-09. Under his leadership, Redlands has hosted multiple NCAA Championships, enhancing the student-athlete experience.

The Bulldogs have achieved both competitive success and academic excellence under Martinez's guidance. They are one of four institutions in the SCIAC to have won the SCIAC All Sports Trophy and have been the highest-ranking West Coast NCAA DIII institution in four different years: 2002-03, 2004-05, 2006-07, and 2007-08. Redlands has also demonstrated a commitment to Title IX by adding women's golf in 2007 and women's flag football.

Martinez has overseen numerous improvements and projects, including the renovation of the Fitness Center in 2024 and the construction of the Coach Jim Verdieck Tennis Center in 2023. He collaborates with coaches, parents, alumni, and faculty to ensure all stakeholders feel valued and engaged.

Beyond the University of Redlands, Martinez has served on various boards, including the Redlands Community Hospital Board of Directors and the Valley Preparatory School Board of Trustees.
 
Committee Service

• NCAA Division III Management Council (served as chair)
• NCAA DIII Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
• NCAA DIII Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sport Committee (CSMAS)
• NCAA DIII Academic Issues Sub-Committee
• NCAA Division III Championships Committee (served as chair)
• 2004 NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships Tournament Director
• 2003 NCAA Division III Women's Tennis Championships Tournament Director

The Daniel T. Dutcher Meritorious Service Award is awarded annually to an individual, who, over time, has made significant and substantial contributions to Division III athletics consistent with the purposes of the Division III Commissioners Association. Candidates shall be a current or former conference or institutional representative, including, but not limited to, conference executives, athletics administrators, faculty athletics representatives and academic administrators.
 
About the DIIICA: The Division III Commissioners Association became a stand-alone organization in January 1992, after previously serving as a combined group with the Division II Commissioners Association. The association is comprised of 43 NCAA Division III conferences, representing over 440 public and private institutions. The purpose of the DIIICA is to empower commissioners to effectively lead their conferences and positively impact Division III intercollegiate athletics by identifying challenges, developing solutions, and taking collective action that reflects the conference perspective.