For Reagan Mittendorf, choosing Waynesburg University was about more than just continuing her soccer career— it was about finding a place where she could grow academically and personally while competing at a high level. 

“I chose Waynesburg because of the soccer program and the incredible forensic science program,” Mittendorf said. “There are not a lot of smaller schools in the country that would allow me the opportunity to continue playing soccer while being able to study my preferred major.”  

That decision led to a transformative four-year experience marked by leadership, achievement and meaningful relationships. A forensic science major, Mittendorf quickly became an integral part of the women’s soccer program, developing into a two-year captain and a steady leader for her teammates. 

Head coach George DeAugustino first met Reagan during a summer visit before her senior year of high school, shortly after arriving at Waynesburg. What began as a conversation about the future of the program turned into something much bigger. 

After watching her film, DeAugustino offered Mittendorf a spot on the roster, making her his first recruit and eventual first commit. 

Over the next four years, Mittendorf helped turn that early vision into reality. 

“She has been a major part of leading the team in off-season commitment and accountability,” DeAugustino said. “Raising the soccer IQ of the team as well by watching film and talking the game with her teammates consistently.”  

Her leadership extended beyond practices and games. Mittendorf consistently set the tone with her work ethic, bringing a competitive edge to training while also excelling in the classroom. “She also leads by how excellent she does in the classroom,” DeAugustino added.  

Mittendorfs academic success speaks for itself. She earned PAC Honor Roll recognition, was named PAC SAAC Student-Athlete of the Month and received United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-East Region honors — accomplishments that reflect her commitment to both her studies and her sport. 

She credits much of that success to the people who supported her along the way. 

“Coach George [DeAugustino] has obviously been influential in my time at Waynesburg,” Mittendorf said. “He really buys into how Division III programs operate, that academics are still the top priority even though I am incredibly invested in soccer.”  

She also highlighted the impact of her professors in the chemistry and forensic science departments, who challenged her academically while also supporting her on a personal level. 

“They expose us to very hard coursework and that allowed me to be very confident in my lab work,” Mittendorf said. “They also engage with students on a personal level and care about all aspects of our lives.”  

That support played a key role in preparing Mittendorf for her next step. Many of her professors contributed to her law school applications by writing recommendation letters, something she says she is “incredibly grateful for.”  

In addition to her academic and athletic commitments, Mittendorf gained valuable real-world experience through an internship with a government agency in Columbus, Ohio. She began the position during her sophomore year and has continued working there full time each summer. 

“This summer I will be continuing my internship,” Mittendorf said. “Then, in the fall I will be starting law school at Case Western Reserve University with the intent to also get my master’s of science in biochemistry.”  

As she looks ahead, Mittendorf reflects on the role athletics played in shaping her college experience. Being part of a team gave her more than just competition— it provided a sense of belonging and personal growth. 

“Being a student-athlete has allowed me to build a community that I never would have otherwise,” Mittendorf said. “I am more confident in myself, I learned how to engage with all types of people and learned to continue despite small setbacks.”  

She also acknowledged the emotional side of graduating and leaving behind a major part of her identity. 

“It will certainly be hard to not be an athlete anymore,” Mittendorf said. “It’s a sense of identity for a lot of us and something we take very seriously.”  

For DeAugustino, Reagan’s legacy goes far beyond statistics or accolades. As one of the foundational pieces of the program, her influence will continue to be felt long after her graduation. 

“I am extremely proud of you,” DeAugustino said. “Our program would not be where it is today if it wasn’t for your hard work, dedication and leadership.”  

From helping shape a program to preparing for a future in law and science, Reagan Mittendorf leaves Waynesburg with a legacy defined by determination, leadership and a commitment to excellence — both on the field and in the classroom.