Hobbs, NM — April 15, 2025 — New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is proud to announce that Athletic Director Deron Clark has been named the recipient of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Appreciation Award. This prestigious recognition highlights Clark’s exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to student-athletes, and outstanding contributions to collegiate athletics. Clark received this award April 15 at the NJCAA National Convention in Denton, TX.

As Athletic Director, Deron Clark embodies NMJC athletics. He is the driving force behind over 200 student-athletes, 16 coaches, and a dedicated support staff, overseeing six men's teams, six women's teams, and an athletic training department with student assistants.

Under Clark’s guidance, NMJC’s athletic programs have reached new heights, both on the field and in the classroom. During his tenure, the college has seen multiple teams advance to national tournaments and numerous athletes earn top honors national honors. NMJC successfully hosted the NJCAA National Outdoor Track & Field Championships in 2019 and 2023, as well as the Men’s Division I Golf Championship in the spring of 2024. Additionally, NMJC has expanded its athletic program during Deron’s tenure by introducing four new sports: volleyball, men's cross country, men's track & field, and women’s golf.

“Deron Clark is every president’s “Dream Athletic Director”. He always operates with the utmost integrity - leading by example and setting the standard for excellence on and off the field. He is one of the hardest workers on campus, ever willing to give his time to support his coaches, student-athletes, and the entire athletic program,” said NMJC Interim President Cathy Mitchell. “Beyond his tireless work ethic, Deron is a man of deep faith, a loving husband, and a devoted grandfather. His impact extends far beyond wins and losses—he is a teacher, mentor, and advocate for coaches and student-athletes alike, always striving to ensure their success in academics, athletics, and life. He constantly pushes for both academic and athletic success for his student-athletes, ensuring they grow not just as competitors, but as well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond sports.”

Deron Clark joined New Mexico Junior College in July 2016. During these 9 years, the athletes and teams have earned:

· 17 National Championships (Track & Field, Half Marathon, Cx, Golf, Saddle Bronc)

· 17 National Runners-Up (Basketball, Golf, Baseball, Cx, Half-Marathon, Track & Field)

· 3 National Tournament finishes for men's golf and 1 for women’s golf

· NJCAA World Series appearance for baseball

· 5 WJCAC Championships

· 1 Volleyball national tournament appearance

· NMJC athlete finished 6th in the world in the 200m at the Paris Olympics

· 3rd Place Daktronics (NATYCAA) finish in 2023-24

· 4th Place Daktronics (NATYCAA) finish in 2022-23

Deron joined the NMJC staff after a 28-year career as a baseball coach and Athletic Director. His coaching journey included roles at Northwood University in Dallas (1988–1991), San Jacinto College in Houston (1991–1994), Texarkana College in Texarkana, TX (1994–1997), and Paris Junior College in Paris, TX (1997–2016).

Deron received the Appreciation Award - the Appreciation Award is handed out strictly at the discretion of the current NJCAA President & CEO to recognize superior contributions to the Association. This award can be bestowed to an individual, group or member college.

About: New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is a leading educational institution committed to providing success through learning and high-quality education to its diverse student body. Founded in 1965, NMJC offers a wide range of academic programs, certifications, and services to empower students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Contact: Valerie Onsurez Gauna, Director of Engagement & Outreach, New Mexico Junior College, 575-492-2780, vgauna@nmjc.edu