Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation is pleased to announce that Mr. Mike Black has been named the Mt. Vernon High School Athletic Director. Mr. Black joins MVHS from Hobart High School, where he currently serves as Athletic Director. His tenure at Mt. Vernon will begin on July 1, 2026.

Mr. Black has served 19 years as a teacher, eight years as an athletic director, and 20 years as a coach. His coaching background includes basketball, track, and cross country. With a strong student-first focus, his combined experience in teaching, administration, and coaching made him a standout candidate for this role.

Throughout his career, Mr. Black has earned numerous accolades, including being named the Indiana Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association’s District 1 Athletic Director of the Year, a finalist for TheLeadershipPlaybook.com Administrator of the Year, and a recipient of the Dutch Kramer Award from the Lake County Athletic Officials Association.

He has also served as president of the Northwest Crossroads Conference, led efforts to earn the Unified Champion School designation, and expanded opportunities for students by adding three new sports programs.

His teaching career is not without accolades as well. Throughout his career, he has earned the Hobart Chamber of Commerce High School Teacher of the Year, Northwest Indiana Teacher of Excellence, as well as the Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction - National Society of High School Scholars. 

Mr. Black has also been a highly effective coach, demonstrating a strong winning mindset by becoming the all-time winningest varsity boys basketball coach in Hobart High School history. In addition, he established a community youth basketball program, further strengthening connections and support within the community.

“I firmly believe that dedication, a positive mindset, and a strong work ethic are essential to success,” Mr. Black said. “I’m excited to lead a championship-caliber athletic program by building meaningful relationships with student-athletes, mentoring coaches, and collaborating with stakeholders. My top priority is ensuring our athletes succeed both in competition and in the classroom, while developing into individuals who lead with integrity, serve others, and strive to be their best.

While our goal is to win, our purpose is to teach life lessons through sports that prepare our student-athletes to become champions in life. Marauder athletics has a rich and proud tradition, and I am committed to elevating the entire program to the next level.”

Mrs. Brooke Tharp, principal of MVHS, shared, “Mr. Black’s education-based focus on athletics combined with a competitive mindset will undoubtedly lead MVHS athletics to continued success. His extensive experience as a teacher, coach, and athletic director provides the right combination to lead and support our athletic programs, with a focus on success for our student athletes both on the playing field and in the classroom.”

References for Mr. Black describe him as a servant leader who brings innovative strategies, strong vision, and a commitment to excellence. They note his ability to transform athletic programs into competitive, successful champions through effective and collaborative communication. Beyond his professional accomplishments, many emphasize that he is an even better person.

Mr. Black earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Wabash College in 1997. He later obtained his teaching certification in biology, chemistry, and science from Purdue University Calumet in 1999, followed by his Advanced Placement Chemistry certification from Butler University in 2006 and a master’s degree in educational administration from Purdue University Calumet in 2012.