At the start of the 2025–26 school year, NDB welcomed new Athletic Director Laura Gill. Now, as the end of the year approaches, she has made a tremendous impact behind the scenes, while supporting student-athletes across all seasons. From the very beginning, she stepped into the role with energy and intention, working to strengthen the school’s athletics program and create a more unified, supportive environment for everyone.
One of Gill’s main goals when she started was to take some time to get to know members of the community by observing and listening to athletes. Over time, she began to realize the areas of the school’s sports program that needed improvement.
“I try to be really intentional about making sure that I make it out to all different games, whether it be home [or] away. I really am intentional about that, so people know that I’m present and that I care as well,” said Gill.
To Gill, building relationships and trust with her athletes and coaches is the most rewarding part of her job and was one of the challenges that came with it, citing that trust takes time to create and it does not happen quickly. She has not only been successful in this endeavor, but also made her mark as director by springing off of an amazing athletics culture and taking time to focus on some sports that may need more guidance and recognition on campus, by taking the strategies of high-performing sports and applying them to others.
“Ultimately, my job is to make sure that students have an amazing experience at Notre Dame, and I’ve been really intentional about ensuring that our students and athletes know that I have an open door and that they can come and talk to me when they feel like things are not going well. Or, maybe they are going well and they just want to tell me how great it is,” shared Gill.
Gill mentioned that she will continue this work, though she prioritizes creating “an environment and athletic culture where young women can thrive” and discover their true athletic potential. Her vision reflects a commitment not just to success in sports, but to building confidence and a strong sense of identity among student-athletes.
She also noted that one of her proudest moments this year was organizing media days and ensuring that all senior athletes were recognized with their own individual banners. This effort highlighted her dedication to celebrating athletes and making them feel seen and valued, leaving a lasting impression on both the students and the broader school community.
While this marks the end of Gill’s first year at NDB, it is far from the end of her impact on the school’s athletic program and community. Throughout her time here, she has already demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting student-athletes not only in their performance, but also in their growth as individuals. Her dedication extends beyond practices and games, as she actively works to build confidence, resilience and a sense of teamwork among the athletes she mentors. Gill has shown that she values each student’s journey, encouraging them to push past challenges and recognize their own potential both on and off the field.
