Class of 2026

Bill Bryant has been a pillar of New York State high school athletics for nearly 50 years, with a defining chapter of his career spent at Ithaca High School. Serving as athletic director from 1988 to 2010, Bryant built a culture grounded in integrity, professionalism, and student-centered leadership.

At Ithaca High School, Bryant was a visible and accessible leader known for his open-door policy with student-athletes, coaches, and families. He strengthened athletic programs by instituting a comprehensive code of conduct, authoring a district-wide anti-bullying and anti-harassment policy, and leading meaningful professional development for coaches. He also realigned the booster club and spearheaded major capital improvements, including the turf field, multipurpose room, and strength and conditioning facility, investments that continue to benefit IHS students today.

Beyond Ithaca, Bryant served as athletic director at Spencer-Van Etten, held interim administrative roles at Brockport and Marcellus, and has served as executive director of Section IV since 2021. A respected statewide leader, he has served on numerous league, sectional, and state committees and is a member of the Ithaca College Hall of Fame, Section IV Hall of Fame, and NYSAAA Hall of Fame. He was named NYSAAA Athletic Director of the Year and served as NYSAAA president in 2007.

A former All-American wide receiver at Ithaca College, Bryant later signed as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Redskins. His legacy at Ithaca High School reflects a lifelong commitment to education-based athletics and the students they serve.