Grand Rapids, Mich. – Aquinas College Athletics believes it has found the right leader to elevate the student-athlete experience for its Cheer & STUNT program while building a culture capable of sustained competitive excellence for years to come.
That belief led the Saints to Jennifer Laskey.
Following a comprehensive national search, Aquinas has named Laskey as its new Head Cheer & STUNT Coach, selecting one of Michigan's most respected and accomplished coaches to guide a program poised for continued growth both on and off the competition floor.
"From our very first conversation, Coach Laskey demonstrated exactly what we were looking for in a leader," said Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Damon Bouwkamp. "Her résumé certainly stood out, but what impressed us even more was her vision. She understands how to build successful programs while developing outstanding young people and creating a culture where accountability, excellence and genuine care for student-athletes all work together. It became clear that she wasn't simply looking for another coaching position—she was looking for a place to build something special, and we believe Aquinas is that place."
Those qualities are backed by a career defined by excellence.
Laskey brings more than 23 years of coaching experience to Aquinas after transforming Tri County High School into one of Michigan's premier cheer programs. During her tenure, the Vikings captured 14 conference championships, three district titles, three regional championships and qualified for the MHSAA State Finals on nine occasions. Along the way, she earned numerous Conference, District, Regional and State Coach of the Year honors while establishing a reputation for developing championship-caliber teams, confident leaders and outstanding young people.
While those accomplishments are impressive, Laskey believes the true measure of success extends far beyond trophies and banners.
"What drew me to Aquinas was the opportunity to become part of a community that genuinely invests in its student-athletes," Laskey said. "The people, the mission and the vision for the future immediately stood out to me. I want to build a program where our student-athletes are challenged to grow as competitors, students and people, while creating a culture that our alumni, campus community and future Saints can all be proud of."
That student-first philosophy made Laskey an ideal fit for Aquinas.
"Jen's commitment to developing the whole student-athlete aligns perfectly with our mission," Bouwkamp said. "She understands that success is measured by much more than championships. She values academic achievement, leadership, character and service just as much as competitive excellence. Those are the qualities that make Aquinas special, and they're the qualities she will bring to our Cheer & STUNT program every day."
Laskey succeeds Sue Smith and inherits a Saints program that continues to grow in both Cheer and STUNT while competing in one of the nation's fastest-growing collegiate sports.
As Coach Laskey begins this new journey, the Aquinas community is excited to welcome a leader whose passion for developing people reflects the mission of Aquinas College.
Welcome to Aquinas, Coach Laskey. May your leadership inspire countless student-athletes to grow as competitors, leaders and people—and along the way, discover why every day truly is a great day to be a Saint.
