WATERBURY, Conn. -- Post University announces the hiring of Michael Lavato as the new Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Ops. Lavato brings an abundance of experience to the Post University athletic department as he was at American International College for over 15 years in various roles. 

Mike Lavato brings over 15 years of progressive NCAA Division II athletics leadership, strategic planning, and operational excellence to Post University. Most recently serving as Senior Associate Athletic Director at American International College (AIC), Lavato provided administrative oversight for multi-sport programs, managed a $2M+ operating budget, directed game-day and facility operations, and spearheaded initiatives focused on holistic student-athlete development.

A recognized leader across collegiate athletics, Lavato brings significant experience from both conference and national leadership roles. He served on the Northeast-10 Conference Sports Administration Council since 2019 and was elected chair for the 2025-2026 academic year. He has also done work on several NCAA National Committees, most recently the Chair of the Men's Soccer National Committee. His administrative career also includes directing major national/conference postseason events, such as serving as NCAA Tournament Director for the Springfield Division I Hockey Regional and the NCAA DII East Region Women's Volleyball and Men's Basketball Championships, and many NE10 Championships while at AIC.

Lavato earned both his Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Sports & Recreation Management from American International College, where he was also an NCAA Division II student-athlete as he was a member of the AIC baseball team for five seasons. 

 "I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Post University Community. I am especially grateful to Karin Mann for this opportunity and for her support throughout the process. I look forward to joining the Post community, building relationships, and supporting our coaches, staff and student-athletes. I cannot wait to get started and be part of the continued success of Post Athletics!" said Lavato about his appointment.