University of New Haven Athletics

Mike Ambrose ranks as one of the greatest runners in New Haven history.  Whether it was on the cross-country course or on the track, Ambrose was an intense performer who quickly earned the reputation as one of the finest runners in New England.  He set school records in the 1500 meters (3:48.39), 5000 meters (14:27), 3000 meters (8:14.8), two miles (8:54.2) and indoor mile (4:10.0), all of which still stand today.  

Ambrose was also part of the record setting distance medley relay team (10:00.4), running the mile leg in 4:08. Even more impressive is that Ambrose set records and won awards against competition from all NCAA Divisions. He served as captain for both the cross-country and track teams.  After graduating, Ambrose continued to compete at a regional and national level, winning four Connecticut TAC championships and running a personal best in the one mile (4:04.9).

Ambrose graduated Summa Cum Laude in Mechanical Engineering in 1984. He later earned a Master of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2000.  Mike had a successful 38-year career at Sikorsky Aircraft holding several senior executive positions, including Vice President of Engineering and Technology.  He has been awarded two U.S. patents. 

Ambrose has also had a long relationship with the University.  He is a member of the UNH Athletic (1991) and Engineering (2016) Hall of Fames. He was past President of the Alumni Board of Directors (2012-2014).  In 2015, he was elected to the University Board of Governors. In 2024, Mike was named Chair of the Board of Governors.  Ambrose has played a pivotal role in many strategic initiatives for the university, including leading the search for the university’s seventh president, Jens Fredrickson.