Buffalo State University Athletics

Payne served as the vice president for student affairs for 27 years beginning in 1990, fostering unprecedented growth in athletics during his tenure.  Payne supported the addition of varsity programs in the sports of men’s and women’s ice hockey and women’s lacrosse.  He was also instrumental in many facility enhancements, including the construction of a new softball field, installation of turf on Coyer Field, the construction of lights and a press box on Coyer Field and a major renovation of Houston Gym.  Payne also helped Buffalo State transition to full-time head coaches for all of its varsity sports.