Finalists Named in Athletic Director Search
6/6/2007 12:25:16 PM
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Wilmington, N.C. - Following a comprehensive national search that attracted nearly 300 applicants for its vacant athletic director position, University of North Carolina Wilmington officials have invited three candidates for on-campus visits over the next two weeks.
The finalists are John Blanchard, senior associate athletic director, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill; Kevin McNamee, deputy athletic director, George Mason University; Kelly Landry Mehrtens, associate athletic director/senior women's administrator, University of Kansas.
The process of finding the next person to lead the school's 19-sport intercollegiate program began early last month when a search committee was formed by Chancellor Rosemary DePaolo. A position announcement was drafted and advertised nationally, with a May 18 closing date.
The six-person committee, chaired by Larry Clark, dean of the Cameron School of Business, has met numerous times and recently conducted telephone interviews to narrow the scope of the search.
"We had an incredible field of candidates," said Clark. "The top six or seven candidates were all really top caliber, and any one of them would be a good leader for UNCW. Ultimately, three candidates edged ahead. Most importantly, our top three candidates have all agreed to come to Wilmington for the campus visit. We're very excited about the prospect of finding an outstanding individual to direct our athletic program."
During their visit, the finalists will spend time getting to know the community and campus leaders. In addition to tours of the area and campus facilities, the candidates with meet with Chancellor DePaolo, members of the search committee, Seahawk Club Board of Directors, athletic staff, senior athletic administrators, Athletic Council and other university personnel.
UNCW is seeking an experienced candidate who will provide outstanding leadership to the athletic department, working with administration, faculty, staff and students to maintain the university's growing program. The director of athletics will be responsible for the quality and integrity of all athletic programs, promotions and fund-raising, management of fiscal and human resources, and the development of athletic facilities.
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