Cepeda officially joined the Ashford track and field staff as a graduate assistant coach in late December of 2010. His unique experiences and unparalleled success while at the University of Northern Iowa and at the national level is an unquestioned asset in the Saints' quest for all-around achievement.

Cepeda, a native of Beloit, Wis., was a standout at the University of Northern Iowa, leaving the Panthers' record books decorated as a five-time All-American, six-time NCAA qualifier, four-time regional qualifier, 16-time All-Missouri Valley Conference selection and eight-time MVC champion.

Cepeda recorded the fourth-highest score in NCAA history at the time in the heptathlon in 2007, placing third at the national indoor championships in Fayetteville, Ark. He also competed in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore., and captured a North America, Central America and Caribbean Athletic Association Championship (NACAC), also in the same year.

The U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association named Cepeda as the Midwest Region Field Athlete of the Year following his junior campaign. He also has numerous titles in the prestigious Drake Relays and owns a handful of Missouri Valley Conference records.

Cepeda obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Movement and Exercise Science from the University of Northern Iowa in 2008. He currently resides in Clinton and will be pursuing his Master's degree in Organizational Management during his tenure at Ashford.

The Cepeda File

• Student Assistant Track and Field Coach - University of Northern Iowa (2008-09)
  
• Graduate Assistant Track and Field Coach - Ashford University (2010-Present)