Lewis Athletics is proud to introduce "Flyer Features," a series spotlighting the incredible individuals who make our program soar. From former and current student-athletes to coaches, staff, and supporters, these stories will celebrate the people driving our success. Join us as we share their journeys, accomplishments, and the impact they've made on the Flyers family.
ROMEOVILLE, Ill. -- Joe Falese has been a fixture at Lewis University for over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on its athletics program, student life and campus community. From his days as a student-athlete to his tenure as a respected administrator, Falese has played a pivotal role in shaping the university's growth and success. His induction into the Lewis Athletics Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his unwavering commitment to the Flyers.
Falese's journey began quite unexpectedly. A multi-sport athlete in high school, he initially committed to Illinois State to play baseball. A week before school started in late August, Joe and his father traveled from Dundee, Illinois, down to Bloomington to attend orientation and do final prep for his first semester of college. On the way home, Joe's dad mentioned that he had read that Lewis had just won an NAIA National Championship in baseball and that they were coached by Gordie Gillespie. Joe, or his dad, had not heard of Lewis prior to this moment. However, they did recognize the name Gordie Gillespie. Their minds traveled back ten years to a time when Joe attended an Ernie Banks baseball school in Elgin, Illinois. One of the coaches at that camp was Gordie Gillespie.
Their travels back home that day took them very near to Lewis University, so, on a whim, they pulled onto campus in search of coach Gillespie. It was 4:00 p.m. on a Friday afternoon and they found their way to the Athletic Office, where they discovered Coach Gillespie all alone in the office. Their plan was to introduce themselves and thank coach Gillespie for his coaching skills at that camp.
Well, an hour and a half later, Joe and his dad left the office and headed to their car. Joe turned to his dad and said, "Dad, I don't want to go to ISU; I want to go to Lewis." Mind you, this was one week before school was to start. Joe's dad was all in with this plan, and the rest is history. Little did Joe know then that Lewis would have such a profound impact on his life both personally and professionally for the next 50 years.
Falese graduated and quickly found himself working at Lewis, beginning his career on January 2, 1979. Over the next 40-plus years, he took on a variety of roles, always with a focus on improving student life and advancing the athletics program. He started as the Director of Student Life and Housing before moving up to Assistant Dean of Students. By 1985, he was overseeing athletics as the Dean of Students, eventually becoming Vice President for Student Affairs in 1989.
In 2019, he transitioned into university advancement as a senior gift officer, continuing his efforts to strengthen alumni engagement until his retirement in 2021.
"The growth and quality of the institution has been remarkable," Falese said. "Under Br. James Gaffney's leadership as President for 28 years, Lewis' campus was transformed in ways that are indescribable. The growth of enrollment from 2,500 students, with 650 living on campus, to now well over 7,000 students, with 1,000 residents, is incredible. The quality and expansion of academic programs, including doctorate programs, is just as impressive."
One of the most significant milestones in Falese's career was Lewis University's transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II. He, along with Chuck Schwarz and Paul Ruddy, led the discussions, ultimately making the move a reality.
"We were quickly very competitive at the Division II level; there were no training wheels for us as a program," Falese said. "The move has benefited the institution to grow enrollment, but more importantly, a brand nationally and internationally."
Falese always believed in a long-term vision for the university's athletics, emphasizing that every decision was made with the school's best interests in mind.
"The late Paul Ruddy and I always wanted every one of our teams to be successful," he said. "This wasn't about short-term success—it was about the long-term vision for the university. Now, we have nationally recognized programs coming to Romeoville. How cool is that?"
Beyond athletics and administration, Falese has been a passionate advocate for giving back to Lewis University. He firmly believes in the importance of alumni staying connected and supporting future generations of Flyers.
"There are three important points when it comes to giving back," Falese said. "First, give as you are able. Second, don't ever forget about us. Third, our diploma is worth more every day."
Playing a role in the transformation of the campus into the beautiful place it is today gives Falese great pride. A close second would be his family establishing the Falese Family Endowed Scholarship. Along with this scholarship, Lewis is also in his estate plans to assure a permanent legacy in the place that has meant the world to him.
After more than four decades at Lewis, Falese looks back on his career with deep gratitude.
"I would not have changed one thing," he stated."
From the moment he walked onto campus as a student to the day he retired, Falese remained dedicated to Lewis University. His leadership, vision, and generosity have helped shape the institution into what it is today, making his induction into the Lewis Athletics Hall of Fame a well-earned honor. His legacy in athletics and beyond will continue to inspire future Flyers for generations to come.
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