Bio

David Voortman serves as the Dean and Athletic Director of Kinesiology, Public Health, and Athletics at Modesto Junior College (MJC). With more than 30 years of experience in education, coaching, and athletic administration, David is committed to creating opportunities for student-athletes to thrive—on the field, in the classroom, and in life.

At the heart of MJC Athletics under Voortman’s leadership are the three R’s: Recruitment, Retention, and Releasing student-athletes to the four-year universities or full time employment. This guiding philosophy emphasizes a holistic approach to student success, helping young athletes grow into leaders, earn degrees and certificates, and continue their athletic and academic careers beyond MJC.

Over his career David has overseen the development of multiple competitive athletic facilities from the ground up, enhancing the student-athlete experience and strengthening community engagement through sports. He also helped launch MJC’s Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC)—a platform that gives student-athletes a voice in shaping the future of Pirate Athletics. SAAC builds leadership skills, strengthens communication with the athletic department, and fosters a strong sense of unity and service between athletes and the wider community. Since his tenure MJC has seen an influx of student-athletes, the introduction of Women’s Wrestling, increased coverage in the training center with more athletic training staff, and continual top 10 placement in the NATYCAA CUP standings.

David’s impact goes beyond the MJC campus. He currently serves on the California Community College Athletic Association (3C2A) Management Council, the Post Conference Competition Review Committee, the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Subcommittee, and is the 3C2A Women’s Golf Representative. He also represents golf in the Big 8 Conference. His leadership at the state level contributes to strategic planning, student-athlete policy, and sport-specific advancement across California.

Before joining MJC, David built a distinguished career at the high school level as an Athletic Director and coach for over 25 years—coaching many different sports and winning multiple CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Championships in Cross Country. He also held leadership roles on the CIF State Athletic Advisory Committee and the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section Budget Committee, as well as a conference commissioner for over 12 years, advocating for student-athletes at all levels of competition.

David is a proud graduate of California State University, Stanislaus, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, and Concordia University, Irvine, where he earned a Master’s degree in Athletic Administration and Coaching.

Born and raised in the Central Valley, David now resides in Knights Ferry, California, with his wife Heather and their three children: Dakota, Tristan, and Liam. He is passionate about education, student growth, and building a legacy of excellence, service, and opportunity through athletic participation.