DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — DME Academy is pleased to announce the promotion of Haleigh Panaggio to Director of Athletic Operations, recognizing her longstanding commitment to the Academy and expanding her leadership responsibilities within DME’s athletic programs.
Panaggio has been a valued member of the DME Academy community since 2019. During that time, she has contributed across communications, marketing, student life, event management and athletics, becoming a trusted resource for students, families, coaches and colleagues throughout the organization.
In her new role, Panaggio will help coordinate the day-to-day operations of DME Academy’s athletic programs, support coaches and program directors, strengthen communication across departments and help ensure student-athletes receive a consistent, well-organized and supportive experience.
“Haleigh has given an incredible amount of her time, energy and heart to DME Academy,” said Seth Brown, President and CEO of DME Academy. “She understands our students, our coaches and the details required to make this organization operate successfully. More importantly, she cares deeply about the people she serves. This promotion recognizes everything Haleigh has already contributed while giving her the opportunity to make an even greater impact on our athletic programs and the student-athlete experience.”
An Arkansas native, Panaggio attended Henderson State University, where she was a four-year starter for the women’s basketball team. During her collegiate career, she became the program’s career leader in three-point field goals and broke the Great American Conference career record.
After earning her degree in Sports Management and Marketing in 2018, Panaggio relocated to Florida with DME basketball coach Matt Panaggio. They married in 2020 and are now raising their three sons, Luca, Leo and Arlo.
Panaggio’s own experience as a collegiate student-athlete has shaped her approach to supporting DME students. Throughout her time at the Academy, she has remained closely involved in their daily lives while helping produce many of the events, communications and campus traditions that have strengthened the DME community.
“DME Academy has been such an important part of my life and my family’s life,” Panaggio said. “I am incredibly grateful for the trust our leadership team has placed in me and for their willingness to help me recognize the ways I can continue growing as a leader. I am excited to take on this role, work even more closely with our athletic programs and continue supporting our students each day.”
As she transitions into the Director of Athletic Operations position, Panaggio will gradually step away from leading several of DME’s signature events and marketing initiatives. She will continue supporting those teams during the transition while maintaining an active and visible presence across campus.
“Haleigh represents the kind of internal growth we want to create at DME Academy,” Brown added. “She has earned this opportunity through years of commitment, adaptability and service. She knows our culture, believes in our mission and understands that every operational decision ultimately affects the experience of our students. We are excited to see her step into this next chapter.”
Panaggio’s promotion is part of DME Academy’s continued investment in strengthening athletic operations, aligning campus departments and creating one exceptional student-athlete experience.
About DME Academy
DME Academy is a nationally recognized private boarding and day school in Daytona Beach, Florida, built for student-athletes pursuing excellence in academics, athletics and life. Through a fully integrated student-athlete experience, DME prepares students to win their future by developing the skills, discipline, character and confidence needed for what’s next.
