Bio

Sara Gauntner was promoted to Associate Director of Athletics for Recreational Programs in July 2016. She was previously the Director of Aquatic Activities and assistant swimming coach since 2005.  

Gauntner arrived at Carnegie Mellon in August 2005 as the Director of Aquatics and assistant men’s and women’s swimming and diving coach and was promoted in 2009 to Assistant Director of Athletics for Recreational Programs. She supervises all aspects of campus recreation at Carnegie Mellon which include Physical Education Curriculum, Group X, Aquatics, 23 club sports, Intramurals and is responsible for all recreational facilities including work orders and campus scheduling.   In addition, over the past several years, Gauntner has provided leadership and vision for several athletics facility renovations and upgrades which include the 62,000-square foot addition to the Jared L. Cohon University Center, Tepper Fitness Center, outdoor basketball and fitness areas and the swimming pool/locker room enhancements.  

Gauntner has the following certifications: Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Pesticide Application, Safety for Swim Coaches, Lifeguard Training, CPR, First Aid, AED, WSI, Pool Operations, and has a Pennsylvania Teaching Certification.

Gauntner graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Health, Physical Education and Aquatics and holds her master's degree in education from Gannon University. Gauntner also has a master's degree in sports leadership from Duquesne University.

Sara and her husband, Michael, reside in Plum.  They have three children, Mika, Camryn, and Noah.  Sara's office is located in the Jared L. Cohon University Center. You can contact her at 412-268-7030 or by email.