VICKI MITCHELL

One of the most distinguished athletes and international competitors in the Western New York running community, Vicki Mitchell epitomizes all of the qualities of a well-respected college cross country and track and field coach. Her roots began as a 10-time All-American at Cortland State that saw her lead the Red Dragons to a NCAA Division III National Championship in cross country and track and field followed by appearances on five USA National teams

Following her international running career, Mitchell’s passion for the sport led her to coaching. A Western New York native, Mitchell started her illustrious coaching career at Holy Angels Academy where she spent five seasons before moving on to become the assistant coach of the cross country and track and field programs at William Jewell College in Kansas City. Her deep WNY roots eventually brought her back to the area as the head coach of the University at Buffalo cross country and track and field programs more than 15 years ago.

Her time at the University at Buffalo has been highlighted by All-Americans and school records each season. Mitchell helped lead the UB women’s track and field squad to their highest team placing in school history, third place, at the 2013 Mid-American Conference Outdoor Championships. She also led the women to their highest team placing in program history when they captured fourth place at the 2014 Indoor MAC Championships. The Western New York Running Hall of Fame inductee also helped bring the 2011 NCAA Northeast Cross Country Championships to WNY for the first time ever.

Respected by her peers for countless years of service to the Western New York running landscape, Vicki Mitchell leaves an unforgettable mark on our community and more importantly on all the athletes she has impacted during her illustrious career.