Mount Vernon softball coach Robin Brand was announced as the new softball coach at Cornell College on Monday, June 16.

She plans to continue in her role as a teacher and coach at Mount Vernon.

“I’m very excited for the opportunity and challenge ahead of me,” Brand said in a release. “This seemed like the right time.”

Brand has a 363-154 record with the Mustangs with seven trips to the state tournament over 13 seasons. She was the Class 3A Coach of the Year in 2021 and 2022.

“Robin has a passion for coaching and developing young people,” Cornell AD Jeff Meeker said in a release. “She’s excited about the challenge of building championship program.

“Her community ties and softball connections will be key components in this process.”

Cornell finished 16-20 this past season, fifth in the Midwest Conference. Jackie Yoder resigned after eight seasons. The Rams last earned a Div. III playoff spot in 2018.

“I love Division III athletics,” Brand said. “My four children, my husband and I, we’ve all been a part of it. This is an opportunity to be part of a special experience at Cornell.”

Brand played collegiately at Central College and coached at Guthrie Center before coming to Mount Vernon.

She joins boys’ soccer coach Nate Grosse as coaches doing dual roles with Mount Vernon and Cornell. The Rams also recently hired former Williamsburg coach Curt Ritchie to lead the football program.