New England College (NEC) welcomes Dr. Josh Staley as its new Director of Esports. Staley was selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants and began his new role March 1.
“During my time in higher education, I have seen how esports challenges students, offers them a place to find connection, community and an outlet to just have fun,” Staley said. “I’m excited to be part of NEC, and I’m eager to lead this esports program into its next chapter.”
Staley previously served as Director of Esports at Keuka College in Keuka Park, N.Y., where he built the esports program from the ground up while also serving as a full-time professor of psychology.
An online gamer for more than 30 years, Staley’s other esports credentials include contributor to Genji Analytics/Oxygen Esports, working directly with NBA teams and the NBA 2K draft, and lead researcher with Gamer Sensei, where he developed and filed U.S. patents and created a system to build better efficiencies within the brand.
“The competitive pool of applicants for this role speaks very well of our esports program and our student-athletes,” said Dave DeCew, Director of Athletics at NEC. “Josh brings a holistic approach to student-athlete development and a strong belief in academics. He shares our belief that esports involvement enhances the college experience, academically and socially. We are thrilled with our new Director and the direction he will take esports at NEC.”
Staley earned his bachelor’s, master’s and PhD in psychology from Stephen F. Austin University.
