Mark Duda, the head football coach at Lackawanna College, announced his retirement on Monday morning, effective at the end of the 2025 season. This decision marks the conclusion of an era for both the football program and the institution itself. Under Duda’s leadership, Lackawanna has transformed significantly since 1994, evolving from a junior college into a notable four-year institution with a commitment to academic excellence.
Since the merger with Philadelphia-based Peirce College in July, Lackawanna College has become Pennsylvania’s largest private, nonprofit open-enrollment college. This transition has allowed the institution to expand its offerings, now including master’s degree programs. The impact of Duda’s tenure as head coach has been profound, aligning with the college’s educational mission and enhancing its reputation.
As college football faces a turbulent season with numerous coaching changes, Duda’s approach stands as a counterpoint to the prevailing trend. Reports indicate that between August and November 2025, head coaches in the Football Bowl Subdivision faced significant job losses, with buyouts totaling between $160 million and $190 million. Notably, Louisiana State University’s buyout of head coach Brian Kelly exceeded $53 million, while Penn State could owe as much as $48 million if its head coach, James Franklin, is let go without securing another position.
The current climate in college football places a heavy emphasis on winning, often overshadowing the educational values of the sport. Duda’s coaching philosophy, however, has prioritized academics and personal development alongside athletic success. His program has produced over 450 athletes who have advanced to Division I football, along with 25 players who reached the NFL.
Players under Duda’s guidance frequently highlight the importance of academic achievement. “You just can’t put any limits on yourself,” said star offensive lineman Bryant McKinnie, reflecting on his time at Lackawanna before achieving All-American status at the University of Miami and winning a Super Bowl with the Baltimore Ravens. He attributed his success to Duda’s encouragement to work hard and remain consistent.
The pressure on coaches to produce immediate results has intensified, as evidenced by Franklin’s dismissal despite a commendable record of 70% wins and multiple bowl appearances. This situation illustrates a stark contrast to Duda’s legacy, which emphasizes the holistic development of student-athletes. Under his leadership, players not only excelled on the field but also graduated at rates above the national average for college football programs.
As Lackawanna College prepares for its final game of the season against Snow College on November 13, 2025, the institution acknowledges the significant impact Duda has had on its community. His legacy will serve as a reminder of the values that should remain central to collegiate sports: education, character development, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.
With Duda’s retirement, Lackawanna faces the challenge of continuing his vision for a program that integrates academic rigor with athletic achievement, setting a benchmark for coaches at every level in the sport.
