Hall of Fame

The following was written on Joni LeMay's Hall of Fame Plaque.

Joni LeMay served as the face of the Siena Heights University Athletic Department from June 2005 until her retirement in the summer of 2023. She began her career as the department secretary, later advancing to Athletic Administrative Assistant, and ultimately concluding her tenure as Manager of Athletics, retiring with Staff Emeritus status.

Throughout her 18 years of service, Joni was an integral part of the department’s remarkable growth and development. During her tenure, Siena Heights Athletics expanded from approximately 250 student-athletes to more than 700, from 12 varsity sports to 24 varsity programs, and from nine full-time coaches and staff members to 24. Her impact on the department was immeasurable.

Joni oversaw a wide range of responsibilities, including eligibility coordination, banquet planning, report generation, ticketing, and serving as the primary point of contact for the department. She was affectionately known as the “office wife” and “office mom” to countless coaches, staff members, and student-athletes, offering guidance, support, and care throughout the years. She ran the department with professionalism, warmth, and a welcoming smile that made everyone feel at home.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Joni received the Siena Heights University Staff Excellence Award during the 2010–11 academic year. This honor reflected her dedication, positive interactions, and lasting impact not only within the athletic department, but across the entire campus. She also served as a member of the Staff Advisory Council during her tenure.

Consistently the face of Siena Heights Athletics, Joni handled challenging situations with grace and professionalism. Her unique ability to navigate differing personalities and resolve conflicts within an ever-growing department and campus environment was unmatched. Above all, she cared deeply about the people she served—particularly the student-athletes. She built strong relationships with them and was unwavering in her commitment to their well-being, doing everything in her power to help them succeed both on and off the field.