Hoboken, N.J. – After 15 seasons leading the Stevens Institute of Technology men's fencing program and three seasons guiding the women's team, head coach Jim Carpenter has announced his retirement.

"We are extremely grateful for Jim's service to Stevens and the fencing programs over the last 15 years," expressed Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics and Recreation Russell Rogers. "Our teams and athletes were highly successful under his guidance, but what sticks out most to me about Jim was his focus on ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for the students." 

Carpenter departs as the winningest coach in Stevens men's fencing history, compiling a career record of 280-159 on the men's side and a 51-61 mark with the women. Under his leadership, the Ducks achieved unprecedented success, including NCAA Championship appearances in 2014-15 and 2018-19, and multiple Middle Atlantic Collegiate Fencing Association (MACFA) weapon titles. In 2014, Carpenter coached Logan Koester to an NCAA All-America honor – the program's first since 1957. He guided Stevens to MACFA Foil and Epee championships in 2014, an Epee title in 2019-20, and a program-record 37 wins during the 2019-20 season. That same year, the Ducks opened with a 25-0 record, marking the best start and longest winning streak in program history.

"He brought a strong level of positive energy to the department and will really be missed by our entire staff," said Rogers. "We wish Jim nothing but the best as he starts this exciting new chapter."

Before arriving at Castle Point, Carpenter had a distinguished career in both coaching and competition. He served as the United States Fencing Association Director for High Performance and as the USA Women's Épée National Coach, helping the team capture six medals at the 2008 Olympic Games. As an athlete, Carpenter represented the United States at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, earned a top-8 finish at a World Cup event, and was a three-time World Championship competitor. Carpenter's coaching produced numerous standout performances, including NCAA qualifiers Wolfe Crouse (2018-19) and Koester (2014-15), multiple MACFA individual medalists, and USFCA All-Region honorees.

A graduate of Northwestern University with a degree in history, Carpenter was a walk-on who became team captain, Most Valuable Fencer, and posted a career winning percentage above .700 under the legendary Dr. Laurence D. Schiller.