A Return to Midwestern Roots with a Vision for Community and Growth
Freeport, IL – Highland Community College is proud to announce Michael Broskowski will step into the role of the Cougar’s Athletic Director on June 23. With Midwestern roots, a strong history in college athletics, and an unmistakable enthusiasm for community-building, Broskowski steps into this new role ready to elevate a thriving athletic program.
“Michael is genuinely excited about the opportunity presented at Highland and eager to build upon the momentum driven by our coaches, culture and program growth,” said Highland President Christina Kuberski.
A Midwestern Homecoming
Originally from Wisconsin, Broskowski’s new post at Highland feels like more than just a professional milestone—it’s a personal homecoming.
“My parents live just 80 miles from Freeport in Jefferson, Wisconsin,” he shared. “I’ve been familiar with Highland and visited the campus several times over the years. I always had the feeling that if there were ever an opening here, I’d be interested.”
This heartfelt connection to the area underscores a broader commitment: Broskowski isn’t just coming to lead the athletic department—he’s coming to invest in the community.
[JPG, 534.00 KB]From the Broadcast Booth to College Admin
Broskowski brings an exciting and unconventional perspective to Highland’s administrative team. A graduate of Western Illinois University with a degree in Broadcasting, he began his professional career in sports media, serving five years as a director for broadcasting and media relations in minor league baseball.
“When COVID hit, I knew it was time for a change,” Broskowski said, who was working as Sports Information Manager at Laramie County Community College in Wyoming at the time.
He pursued a master’s degree in Sports Administration from Arkansas State University and made a successful transition into athletic administration as Associate Athletic Director at Arizona Western College.
Even after stepping in his administrative role at Arizona Western, he utilized his skills at the next level, producing content for major outlets like ESPN+, where he helped Arizona Western College earn a record seven national athletic broadcasts—more than any other NJCAA program.
At Arizona Western, he secured transformative local sponsorships, expanded the youth Kid’s Club by over 200 members, and developed community-centered initiatives that enriched both the athletic program and the communities it served.
A Community College Advocate
Broskowski is not just an advocate for athletics—he’s a proud product of the community college system, getting his start at Kirkwood Community College. “I honestly didn’t think college was for me at first,” he said. “But starting at a community college changed my trajectory. These schools surround students with great support. Now, I get to help others discover that same sense of purpose and possibility.”
He brings that same student-first mentality to Highland.
“Our athletes are here for a crucial two years. It’s a great opportunity—not just to build athletes, but to build great people.”
President Kuberski echoed this commitment, saying “Michael’s community college experience as both a student and an administrator enhanced by his enthusiasm, his experience with NJCAA, and his Midwestern roots set him apart in a very impressive pool of candidates.”
Building Bridges—On and Off the Field
Broskowski is a firm believer that athletic success starts with meaningful relationships—between coaches and athletic staff, athletes, administration and the community.
“It was evident that Michael was able to communicate and connect with a variety of stakeholders which is a critical aspect of the Athletic Director’s role,” said Kuberski.
His past experience demonstrates what these connections look like in action: delivering meals with athletes during Turkey Drives, hosting field days for local youth, and organizing youth camps with coaches and players.
“We have to support those who support us,” Broskowski said. “That means being visible in the community, attending events, volunteering, and working together with our partners. A great program doesn’t just compete—it contributes.”
“It’s about creating a place where students grow—not just athletically and academically, but personally,” he emphasized.
Women’s Softball Coach Casey Coon is excited about the experience and energy Broskowski brings to the athletic department.
“His vision for Highland aligns with that of our coaching staff,” she said, adding, “Michael’s exceptional communication skills, paired with his experience and knowledge, are invaluable assets to our campus. He truly understands the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. I can’t wait to see all of our programs grow under his leadership.”
A Vision for the Future
Broskowski enters his new role with a clear vision: to build on the program’s existing momentum while strengthening bonds between athletics and the broader Highland community.
“The future is bright,” he said. “We have an amazing team of driven, young coaches who want to see this program and their players succeed. At the end of the day, it’s the people who make a place special.”
Broskowski’s wife, Ta Leasa, is also an educational administrator. In addition to being stepfather to two teenage boys, Dawuan and Dashaun, his family recently grew to a party of five with the arrival of a baby boy. Little Eugene is only two-months old, but his dad cannot wait to see what the future holds for their growing family as well as his new Cougar family.
“Students come to a two-year school, and that place becomes another home. If we do this right, they’ll want to come back someday—not just to visit, but to live, work, and raise a family here.”
That’s the kind of culture Broskowski wants to build at Highland: one grounded in excellence, service, and lasting community ties.