General | June 17, 2019

PHILADELPHIA - The La Salle University is deeply saddened by the passing of Joe O'Donnell, a long-time athletics administrator at La Salle who went on to a highly successful career as athletic director at two institutions. 

"Joe was one of the most loyal, knowledgeable and dedicated athletics administrators I ever worked with in my career," retiring Director of Athletics Bill Bradshaw said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Marie, and the rest of his family."

O'Donnell began his career at La Salle in 1972 as an assistant athletic director before being promoted to associate director of athletics in 1978. His primary role during his tenure was serving as coordinator of Hayman Hall, the college's physical recreation center.

Following a 12-year stint in Philadelphia, O'Donnell moved on to Wichita State and then to American University, where he was named Director of Athletics. Following nearly nine years at American, he moved on to Pace University and oversaw one of the most successful eras of its athletics department.

Over 14 years, the Setters made numerous postseason appearances, several Northeast-10 Conference titles, an ECAC Championship in softball, and nearly 20 NCAA Tournament appearances, including three NCAA Elite 8 runs and two other NCAA Sweet 16 appearances. O'Donnell was inducted into the school's Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, June 18 at St. Patrick Church (104 Channing Avenue, Malvern, PA 19355), beginning at 11:00 a.m.