FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Charlie Dowd, J.D., Sacred Heart University's Deputy Athletics Director for External Affairs, has been named to the board of directors for College Hockey Inc while also taking over as chairman of the executive committee for the New England Women's Hockey Alliance.

"It is an exciting time to be a part of SHU Athletics. I look forward to representing the institution and our student-athletes," said Dowd, who is also part of the Connecticut Ice Tournament Committee and oversees the operation of SHU's hockey venue, Martire Family Arena.

Dowd, who joined SHU in 2018, has served as sport administrator for the Pio men's and women's hockey teams and others, while being involved with sports governing bodies. He was named to the National Intercollegiate Rugby Association Executive Committee in the spring of 2023 and has been chair of the Atlantic Hockey America Executive Committee since 2024.  Dowd is also on the National Collegiate Equestrian Association Selection Committee for NCAA competition.

The SHU administrator has also organized big hockey events, including NCAA Regionals, the NCAA Ice Breaker, CT Ice and the Nutmeg Classic, while Martire Family Arena has been selected to host the 2028 NCAA Women's Frozen Four.  

"Having Charlie on the College Hockey Inc Board and serving as chair of the NEWHA committee is beneficial for SHU Athletics," said Sacred Heart's Executive Director of Athletics Judy Ann Riccio. "His passion for and dedication to the sport of hockey will make a big impact on collegiate coaches, players and officials."