Well, Looky Looky: Guess Who’s Coming to the Doak

Florida State University announced today the appointment of Stan Wilcox, senior deputy athletics director at Duke University, as the institution’s new Director of Athletics, following a national search.

Wilcox was formally introduced during a news conference today at 5:15 p.m.

Florida State University President Eric J. Barron cited Wilcox’s remarkable depth of expertise in the oversight of athletics programs, business acumen, understanding of marketing, NCAA compliance, and experience in strategic fundraising initiatives as well as his track record of student athlete academic success as the reasons for the selection.

“I am excited about the future of Florida State’s athletics program under the direction of Stan. His exceptional portfolio of strategic planning and fundraising experience and his reputation as a motivator, effective communicator and facilitator, as well as a commitment to the education of our student athletes made Stan a clear choice,” said Pres. Barron.

Wilcox, who holds a law degree from Brooklyn Law School and a bachelor of arts in economics from University of Notre Dame, will plan and direct the overall administrative and operational activities of intercollegiate athletics for Florida State. The nationally acclaimed 20-sport athletic program has a budget of $75.2 million. As part of his duties Wilcox will ensure compliance with NCAA, Atlantic Coast Conference, and university rules and regulations.

“I am thrilled and very thankful to Pres. Barron for affording me this great honor. I have followed Florida State athletics from afar and through the ACC Conference; and have always been a big fan of FSU’s student athletes on the field and in the classroom,” said Wilcox. “I look forward to continuing in the great tradition of previous Florida State athletic directors as well as addressing the challenges and opportunities that this outstanding athletics program will hold. Go ’Noles!”

Prior to his role at Duke, Wilcox served as deputy athletic director at his alma mater, Notre Dame, from 2005 to 2008, where he supervised 11 programs ranging from strategic planning initiatives to football to women’s soccer. He also served as associate commissioner of the Big East Conference from 1994 to 2005, providing leadership and conference oversight for NCAA governance. Following completion of law school, Wilcox worked as a legislative assistant with the NCAA from 1989 to 1994.

This is historic and groundbreaking for obvious reasons and I applaud President Barron for his commitment to cultural diversity while pursuing quality candidates.  I, along with others, have been very critical of my alma mater in that African American representation is very low among high ranking administrators at FSU.  This, however, is definitely a step in the right direction.  These kinds of decisions is why we will ALWAYS be one step ahead of those crocodiles in Gainesville.  GO NOLES!