Softball's Dormire Announced as Part of USCAA's Hall of Fame Class of 2026
-By USCAA Athletic Communications
On March 30th, the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Hall of Fame Committee announced a five-member class that will be inducted at the 2026 USCAA Convention on June 7th in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
The USCAA’s seventh annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies will take place on June 7th at 6:30 p.m. with a dinner and induction ceremony at the Winston-Salem Marriott.
“We are proud to honor the 2026 class of inductees,” said USCAA Chief Executive Officer, BJ Bertges. “The National Convention and Hall of Fame dinner are a highlight for me every year, and recognizing the accomplishments of our student-athletes, coaches, and administrators is especially meaningful. This ceremony celebrates not only their impact, but also the continued evolution of our Association. Their contributions serve as a powerful reminder of our mission and inspire us to keep creating opportunities for success at the highest level.”
Former student-athlete honorees this year are: Kaitlin Dormire (Cleary University), Matthew Little (Andrews University).
Staff member honorees this year are: Jim Chester (Penn State Greater Allegheny), Jim Heath (Apprentice School / USCAA), Klint Pleasant (Rochester Christian University)
Kaitlin Dormire (Cleary University)
Kaitlin Dormire, a standout softball player from Cleary University (104-75 overall record), built one of the most accomplished careers in USCAA history, highlighted by her role as a dominant offensive force and clutch performer. She helped lead Cleary to a USCAA Small College World Series national championship (2018), delivering key hits and consistently ranking among the association’s top power hitters. Dormire earned national recognition as the USCAA Player of the Year (2019) and was also named an All-American (2017, 2018, 2019) and All-Academic honoree (2018, 2019) during her career. Known for her leadership, confidence, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments, she played a central role in elevating her program to national prominence and left a lasting impact on USCAA softball.
Matthew Little (Andrews University)
Matthew Little, a standout men’s basketball player at Andrews University, was a key contributor to one of the program’s most successful eras, helping lead the Cardinals to a USCAA Division II National Championship in 2011, 2012, and 2014. A versatile and consistent scorer, he played a central role in the team’s championship run and continued to produce throughout his career, earning recognition as a USCAA Division II All-American (honorable mention 2012 & 2014, 1st team in 2013). Known for his all-around impact on the court, including scoring, rebounding, and leadership, Little was also recognized for his work in the classroom as an All-Academic honoree (2012, 2013, 2014). His contributions helped elevate Andrews University basketball on the national stage and solidified his legacy as one of the program’s top performers.
Jim Chester (Penn State Greater Allegheny)
Jim Chester is a highly accomplished collegiate baseball coach whose tenure at Penn State Greater Allegheny (2008-2014) marked one of the most dominant runs in USCAA history. During his seven seasons leading the program, he compiled an exceptional 239-84-1 record and guided the team to six USCAA World Series appearances, while earning three PSUAC Coach of the Year honors and the 2011 Chuck Tanner Collegiate Manager of the Year award. Under his leadership, the program produced 37 All-Conference players and 24 All-Americans, and he departed as the winningest coach in school history. Chester’s success extended beyond the USCAA level, as he revitalized programs at multiple NCAA institutions and continued his coaching career at the Division I level, demonstrating sustained excellence, leadership, and a lasting impact on collegiate baseball. Chester is currently the head coach at Gardner-Webb University.
Jim Heath (Apprentice School / USCAA)
James “Jim” Heath has built a distinguished career in athletic communications and sports information, highlighted by his long-standing service and impact within collegiate athletics and the USCAA. A graduate of Christopher Newport, Heath spent 15 years as the Sports Information Director at The Apprentice School, where he helped support and promote a national championship baseball program and played a key role in athletic communications operations. Beyond campus, he contributed extensively to the USCAA, serving as the official scorer for national baseball championships for more than a decade and continuing to provide statistical support for over 20 years. His career has also included leadership roles at institutions such as Hampton University and Old Dominion, where he has advanced athletic visibility and communications strategy. Inducted into The Apprentice School Hall of Fame in 2023, Heath is recognized for his consistency, professionalism, and lasting contributions to collegiate athletics communications.
Klint Pleasant (Rochester Christian University)
Klint Pleasant is a highly successful men’s basketball coach and athletic administrator whose leadership at Rochester College (now Rochester Christian University) helped establish one of the premier programs in the USCAA. Taking over a program with deep family roots, he guided the Warriors to six USCAA National Championship appearances, capturing national titles in 2013 and 2018 while earning USCAA Division I Coach of the Year honors (2016). Under his leadership, the program produced numerous All-Americans and contributed to the institution’s overall success, including a USCAA Director’s Cup championship. Beyond the court, Pleasant has demonstrated impactful leadership as an administrator, helping expand athletic programs and drive institutional growth, while building a legacy centered on culture, development, and sustained competitive excellence. Klint joins his father, Garth Pleasant, in the USCAA Hall of Fame, the first father-son duo to be inducted.