By Suzy Alstrin
Reinhardt University announces the retirement of two long-serving and deeply respected members of its community: Dr. Theresa Ast, professor of history, and Roy Reynolds, head coach of women’s lacrosse. Both have made lasting contributions to Reinhardt and will be remembered for their dedication, leadership, and service to students, colleagues, and the institution.
Dr. Ast joined the Reinhardt faculty full-time in 1998 and became a cornerstone of the history and interdisciplinary studies programs. She was a passionate advocate for faculty and academic integrity. She authored Confronting the Holocaust in 2013 and frequently presented research papers at history conferences. Dr. Ken Wheeler, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs stated, “Dr. Ast delighted her students with her brassy sarcasm and directness as she made the past come to life. Her wide-ranging intellectual interests were evident in almost any conversation a person had with her. She will be missed.”
Coach Reynolds launched the women’s lacrosse program at Reinhardt in 2016. Under his leadership, the Eagles secured nine conference titles, and in 2024, the team won the national title. He received the Appalachian Athletic Conference Coach of the Year Award twice, and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Coach of the Year Award in 2024. He finished his career with an impressive record of 218-36 with the Eagles. Executive Director of Athletics Jonathan Burton said, “Coach Roy is a national champion and has laid the foundation for what a successful lacrosse program looks like.”
Reinhardt University extends gratitude to Dr. Ast and Coach Reynolds for their years of dedicated service and wishes them the very best in their next chapters.
