Missouri State University has revealed three distinguished finalists in the search for a new Director of Athletics. This decision marks a pivotal step in the university’s growth as it prepares to join the ranks of Conference USA in 2025. The chosen candidates are Roger Denny, Patrick Ransdell, and Vince Volpe, each bringing unique experiences from their respective universities.
Meet the Finalists
- Roger Denny: Currently the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Senior Associate Athletics Director at the University of Illinois. He will be visiting Missouri State on August 12-13 for interviews and a public forum.
- Patrick Ransdell: Serving as the Deputy Athletics Director at Appalachian State University, Ransdell is scheduled for interviews on August 16-17, accompanied by a public forum on the 16th.
- Vince Volpe: The Associate Athletics Director at Arizona State University, Volpe will engage in his interview process on August 19-20, with a public session on the 19th.
Each candidate was selected from a pool of 54 applicants aiming to replace Kyle Moats, who departed the position in June to take on a similar role at Eastern Kentucky University. This transition comes after Moats successfully led Missouri State into securing an invitation to join Conference USA, which elevates the university’s athletic programs to the FBS level.
Why These Candidates?
According to Brent Dunn, Vice President for University Advancement and Chair of the Search Committee, the selection process was challenging due to the high caliber of applicants. He noted, “This was a great pool of candidates, and it was difficult for the committee to narrow down the search.” The rapid growth of Missouri State University and its impending move to Conference USA has indeed made this role highly desirable. The university seeks a leader who can not only continue this trajectory but also bring innovative ideas to the table.
“The rapid growth of our university and our pending move to Conference USA has really made this an attractive position.” – Brent Dunn
The university emphasized the importance of FBS experience, external engagement capabilities, and fundraising expertise in their selection criteria. These factors are essential as Missouri State aims to enhance its athletic programs and community involvement. Each finalist brings a wealth of experience that aligns with the university’s goals and aspirations.
Detailed Profiles of Finalists
Roger Denny
Background: A noted tax attorney with 15 years of experience, Denny has a strong connection to Missouri, having earned degrees from SEMO, SLU, and Washington. His role at Illinois involves overseeing the football program’s needs, including facilities, NIL management, and strategic initiatives.
Achievements: Denny managed Illinois’ $150 million budget, supervised major renovation projects totaling over $65 million, and played a significant role in hiring key coaches like Bret Bielema and Brad Underwood. His experience in managing high-budget projects and strategic planning makes him a strong contender for Missouri State.
Patrick Ransdell
Background: Ransdell is known for his leadership in external operations at Appalachian State, where he managed capital projects, ticket sales, marketing, and fan experiences. His tenure includes notable fundraising successes and strategic communication advancements.
Achievements: He has overseen significant capital projects, such as the $45 million East Tower project and the $25 million indoor football facility. Ransdell also played a pivotal role in breaking season-ticket sales records across multiple sports. His ability to connect with fans and enhance their experience will be vital in his potential role at Missouri State.
Vince Volpe
Background: With extensive experience in development and external operations, Volpe has worked at prominent institutions like Mizzou, UConn, and Texas-Rio Grande Valley before joining Arizona State. His expertise in generating significant revenue through major gifts and pledges is noteworthy.
Achievements: Volpe launched a successful capital campaign for Arizona State athletics and negotiated a major partnership with AT&T at Texas-Rio Grande Valley. His track record in fundraising and strategic partnerships is impressive, and his vision for Missouri State’s athletic programs could lead to further success and growth.
What’s Next?
The finalists will undergo a comprehensive interview process, meeting with various university stakeholders, including the search committee, athletics staff, student-athletes, and university administrators. Public forums will provide an opportunity for the campus community and the general public to engage with each candidate and offer feedback electronically.
Dunn mentioned that the finalist list might expand if necessary, stating, “We’ve identified maybe a few others who are right there, but the committee felt strongly about these first three.” The university aims to finalize its decision and appoint the new athletics director by early fall, with the selected candidate assuming their role by September. This decision is crucial as the new director will play a key role in shaping the future of Missouri State’s athletic programs and ensuring their success in Conference USA.
The Importance of Community Engagement
Emphasizing the importance of community buy-in, Dunn highlighted the role of external engagement in the athletics director position. “The external side there is going to come from fundraising which will be crucial from marketing and it’s going to be even more and more critical,” he stated. Enhancing fan experience and expanding community outreach are key goals for the new director, aligning with Missouri State’s vision for a thriving athletic department.
As the university transitions to a new era in athletics, the selected director will have the opportunity to implement innovative strategies that engage both the campus and the local community. This includes expanding marketing efforts, enhancing the fan experience, and fostering a sense of pride and ownership among students, alumni, and supporters.
Conclusion
Missouri State University’s search for a new athletics director is a significant step forward in the institution’s journey toward athletic excellence. The selected finalist will not only lead the department through its transition to Conference USA but will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the university’s athletic programs. With a strong emphasis on community engagement, external relations, and strategic growth, the new director will be tasked with building a dynamic and successful athletics program that resonates with fans, students, and the broader community.
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