INDIANAPOLIS—Asa Howard, a widely respected college umpire and leader in officiating, was selected to spearhead the NCAA’s efforts to improve umpiring at the Division II level. Howard, who lives in Amarillo, Texas, has umpired in the past six Division II championships and was the crew chief at the final site in 2004.

“This is a great opportunity for me and for Division II baseball,” said Howard. “I look forward to giving umpires at this level a point person and look forward to improving the understanding and level of officiating in Division II.”

Howard is currently an independent sales representative after 20 years in the funeral business. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Oklahoma.