St. Lawrence University's men's and women's cross country and track and field programs are welcoming Christopher O'Donnell '24 back to campus as the newest member of the coaching staff for the programs, joining as graduate assistant coach.

O'Donnell finished his career with the Saints in 2024, where he was a member of both the men's cross country and men's track and field teams. He served as a captain for each team in both his junior and senior years – now shifting his focus to shaping new leaders in the program as a coach.

"We are looking forward working with Chris in his new role as a graduate assistant coach," said Kate Howard, head coach for St. Lawrence women's cross country and track and field. "His recent experience coaching at the high school level combined with his passion and knowledge of the sport will serve him well and make the transition to college recruiting seamless."

That recent coaching experience came at Newburyport High School, O'Donnell's alma mater in his hometown of Newburyport, Mass. His duties consisted of assisting the head coaches with training preparation, and aiding with program logistics.

"We are thrilled to welcome Chris back to campus and the North Country as a member of our coaching staff," said John Newman, head coach of St. Lawrence men's cross country and track and field. "He will be a valuable asset to our program and the greater campus community buoyed by his passion for track and field and cross country as well as St. Lawrence University."

"Chris brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to this position which will be heavily geared towards recruiting our future Laurentian student-athletes," Howard continued.

O'Donnell joins Erik Geier as another member of the staff who is a recent St. Lawrence track and field graduate. Geier, the program's assistant coach, wrapped up his five-year career in Scarlet and Brown when he crossed the stage in 2023.