On April 13, the University of Denver began its search for a new vice chancellor for athletics and Ritchie Center operations following the announcement that Karlton Creech would be stepping down later this year. The duties of this role consist of participating as a full member of the Chancellor’s senior leadership team while also managing the overall operation of the DU intercollegiate athletics program. This includes overlooking DU’s 18 varsity sports and overseeing “NCAA Division I events, University events, Community events as well as the Highlands Ranch Golf Course operations”. The following contains updates on the hiring process.
The search committee consists of co-chairs, members and administrative support. Parker Executive Search has been chosen by DU to be the search firm partner. In a statement released to the DU community, the university stated, “Parker Executive Search has significant experience facilitating searches for collegiate athletic programs.”
DU is on track in the hiring process and will announce the new candidate in early June.
Co-Chairs
- Mary Clark, provost & executive vice chancellor.
- John Miller (BSBA, 1975; MBA, 1976), trustee and chair-elect.
Members
- Leslie Brunelli, senior vice chancellor for Business and Financial Affairs & university treasurer
- Jamie Franks, head coach, men’s soccer
- Brian Gearity, associate professor & director of the MA Coach and Sports Education Program
- Keith Miller, associate provost of graduate education
- Val Otten, senior vice chancellor for advancement
- Mia Sundstrom, student, Daniels College of Business, women’s gymnastics team-member
- Kara Taczak, teaching professor, writing program
- Christopher Whitt, vice chancellor for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Bob Willis, assistant vice chancellor of community engagement & deputy athletic director
Administrative Support
- Claire Brownell (MA, 2011), director of University protocol and assistant secretary to the Board of Trustees
