Brandon LeBlanc ‘26 | Communication major, Graphic Design minor
As cliché as it sounds, the people make the place. [It’s] one of the main reasons I committed to Saint Anselm College.
Brandon LeBlanc ’26 found community and support at Saint Anselm College as part of the Men’s Cross Country team. With uniquely complementary interests in sports and design, LeBlanc hopes to harness the knowledge he’s gained from courses and an on-campus internship in a vibrant career in sports media and athletic communications.
What brought you to Saint Anselm?
The opportunity to compete and continue running was a big thing for me. When I was looking at colleges and toured Saint Anselm on my recruit visit, I met the coaching staff and some of my future teammates and they seemed really good people. One of the main reasons I committed to Saint Anselm was the people. The coaches seemed very supportive and to care about the team but also about the athletes as individuals. I also liked the location and campus, so it seemed like a good spot for me.
Why did you choose to major in communication?
It seemed like the most logical choice to get me to where I want to be in my professional career. I’ve always liked writing and talking, so it seemed like if I wanted to pursue something sports related that it was probably the best choice.
How about your minor?
I picked up the minor a few years into college, so it’s been fun to talk to my twin sister, Genevieve, about it. She also goes to Saint Anselm, is a Graphic Design major, and designed our Class of 2026 seal! She understands what I mean when I say I’m extremely mad at Photoshop for something specific.
Have you done any internships while on campus?
During my senior year I’ve interned with the Office of Athletic Communications. I use my graphic design skills to make a lot of meet and score graphics. It’s been helpful to have design skills as a tool in my back pocket when it’s been needed at this internship.
Tell me about your experience on the Men’s Cross Country team.
It’s been one of the best things that’s ever happened to me. I love my teammates and the coaching staff. Competing, going to practice every day, and hanging out with my teammates is incredible. We wrapped up the 2025 season at the NE10 Cross Country Championship which I was very fortunate to compete in (also a big personal goal for me.) The track and field program has over 100 student-athletes, but Men’s Cross Country has just under 20 guys. Having such a close relationship with all my teammates is great because I get to go to practice and hang out with my friends. Whether it’s an easy run or a workout it’s a very positive environment to be in.
How else have you felt supported as a Saint Anselm student-athlete?
As far as administration, the College’s commitment to adding a track and field varsity program was huge. The coaches always let us know that they are there for us and want to see us succeed as people, not just athletes. Coach Brian Stankiewicz has been extremely supportive over my four years at the College. He’s really easy to talk to and cares a lot about the sport. He’s helped the team get more competitive and improve each year and grown the program as well. There are not enough good things to say about Coach Brian.
How has being a Saint Anselm student-athlete changed you for the better?
Distance running in general helps you stay disciplined and focused but being on this team has especially. It takes a lot of hard work to be consistent with your training, work through setbacks and injuries, and keeps your brain in the right place. It teaches you to work hard. Running is a sport that you get out what you put into it. You have to show up every day and give it your best effort to see improvement. I’d like to carry that athletic motivation into all aspects of my life as I work towards my goals.
What else have you been involved with on campus?
I’m on the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), I’ve written for The Saint Anselm Crier, and even picked up playing the drums.
What do you hope to pursue as a career?
I want to go into athletic communications and sports media. Interning with Athletic Communications has been a very positive experience. I always enjoy showing up to work whether it’s designing graphics, writing for the website, manning the camera, or stat calling at games.
Is there a particular sport you’d like to focus on?
I like talking about sports, so I’m pretty much interested in anything. I love football, basketball, and hockey, and am also a very big fan of mixed martial arts (MMA) and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
What’s your favorite thing about Saint Anselm?
As cliché as it sounds, the people. The people make the place. I have so many great friends, teammates, and coaches, and of course, my sister. That worked out nicely because she and I can drive home together for the holidays.