By: Spencer Mathis Director of Media & Communications
YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. | Young Harris College Athletics is excited to announce four new inductees into our Athletic Hall of Fame: Randy Dunn (Athletic Director), Mikie Rowe (Men's Soccer), Kendra Parenteau (Women's Lacrosse), and Darby Stanford (Softball). Our four newest members of the YHC Athletics Hall of Fame will be inducted on Saturday, February 7, 2026. To register for the Hall of Fame Luncheon for our inductees, visit the links at the bottom of the article!
2025–26 YHC ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME CLASS:
Randy Dunn, First Athletic Director of the Four-Year Era (2010-2019)
QUOTE FROM RANDY DUNN:
"Being selected to the Young Harris College Athletics Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor. My time at Young Harris College as the Director of Athletics was an incredible opportunity for me.
The accomplishments achieved from becoming a member of the NCAA D-II, Peach Belt Conference and the championships we won were truly outstanding achievements for the College. Without the vision and support of the leadership team and enthusiasm of the entire community, none of this would have been possible.
I am extremely grateful to the selection committee for their support of my nomination for this prestigious award."
Randy Dunn served as the first Athletic Director at Young Harris College during its historic transition from a junior college to a four-year institution. His leadership was instrumental in shaping the future of YHC Athletics and laying the foundation for success that continues today.
Dunn spearheaded the move into NCAA Division II and guided YHC into the Peach Belt Conference in 2012, one of the most competitive DII conferences in the nation, at the time. Under his tenure, YHC Athletics experienced unprecedented growth:
Dunn also oversaw the addition of men's and women's lacrosse programs, expanded cheerleading, and established the YHC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2013. His vision extended beyond athletics, contributing to campus growth and facilities development, including The Harp Recreation and Commencement Center and repurposing spaces for athletic offices and training areas. His tenure marked an incredible transformative era for Young Harris College.
Mikie Rowe, Men's Soccer (2015–2018)
QUOTE FROM MIKIE ROWE:
It's a huge honor to be selected in the Young Harris College Athletics Hall of Fame.
Young Harris will always hold a special place in my heart. My time at YHC will always be seen as one of the most enjoyable periods of my life—both on and off the field."
From my first interactions with Mark McKeever, I knew Young Harris was the place where I could take my game to the next level. Under his guidance, assisted by Dean Grey, I developed more as a footballer and a person than I ever thought was possible, and it's something I'm eternally grateful for."
When I look at the caliber of the people that have been selected before me, it fills me with immense pride to be chosen alongside them. This includes players and coaches that were role models for me when I first came to Young Harris. To be mentioned in the same breath as them is a privilege."
My teammates over my four seasons at YHC are among the very best players and people I have shared a locker room with—that's what makes this recognition especially special."
Mikie Rowe is one of the most decorated athletes in Young Harris College history. During his senior season in 2018, Rowe scored 22 goals, added 5 assists, and totaled 49 points, earning him United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II National Player of the Year and National Scholar Player of the Year honors. His accolades include:
Rowe's career progression was remarkable:
Under his player leadership, YHC men's soccer achieved historic success, including multiple Peach Belt Conference titles and deep NCAA Tournament runs, highlighted by a 17-1-1 record in 2018. Rowe's legacy as a Mountain Lion is defined by his dominance on the pitch and his excellence in the classroom.
Kendra Parenteau, Women's Lacrosse (2015–2018)
QUOTE FROM KENDRA PARENTEAU:
"For four years I had the incredible privilege to play lacrosse at a high level with teammates who became family. I am forever grateful for the opportunity and ability to play, and I am so proud of all that our team accomplished during those years. I would not trade my time at YHC for anything; it enriched my life and has shaped my future. My time as a student in the Enchanted Valley may be over, but I will always take great pride in being a Mountain Lion."
Kendra Parenteau was a cornerstone of the Young Harris College women's lacrosse program, leaving her mark as the all-time leader in points (257) and ranking second in both goals (184) and assists (73). Her career highlights include:
Parenteau helped lead YHC to three consecutive Gulf South Conference Tournament championships (2016, 2017, 2018), earning All-GSC honors and multiple Player of the Week awards. Her junior season was particularly dominant, with 77 goals and 99 points, cementing her status as one of the most prolific scorers in program history.
Darby Stanford, Softball (2013–2016)
QUOTE FROM DARBY STANFORD:
"It's an incredible honor to be inducted into the Young Harris College Athletics Hall of Fame. I can't believe this year marks a decade since playing softball in the Enchanted Valley. I have some of my best memories from my time at Young Harris—moments that taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of true teamwork. Those lessons have continued to influence both my life and career. I'm eternally grateful for my teammates, coaches, professors, and the entire YHC community who shaped my experience."
Darby Stanford was a foundational figure in the rise of Young Harris College softball. She holds multiple program records, including:
Her senior season in 2016 was exceptional, posting a 25-6 record, 1.95 ERA, and 140 strikeouts, ranking second in the Peach Belt Conference and 11th nationally in wins. Stanford's leadership helped YHC reach its first NCAA Division II Tournament appearance and set the stage for future success. Her name remains etched across the YHC record books as one of the greatest pitchers in program history.
Hall of Fame Induction Details:
The Young Harris College 2025–26 Hall of Fame inductions are set for Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Suber Banquet Hall at Young Harris College. The events on February 7th are open to all who sign up; come join us to celebrate these YHC legends and cheer on Mountain Lions basketball! Each of our four inductees will be honored at halftime of the Men's Basketball game on Saturday, February 7th.
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Registration: Tickets are $30 each.
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Randy Dunn, Mikie Rowe, Kendra Parenteau, and Darby Stanford – Saturday, February 7: (Registration Link: YHC Athletics HOF 2025-26))
