There were only two Division I institutions to experience AD turnover in February. The two movements represent the lowest amount of transactions since 2016 when CollegeAD began tracking AD turnover.
Utah Valley University
The university announced on Feb 8. that athletic director Vince Otoupal had left his post to pursue other opportunities. Otoupal had led the program since 2013, overseeing the Wolverines transition from Division II to full-time members of the Western Athletic Conference. “We appreciate what Vince has done during his five-year tenure,” said Val Peterson, vice president for finance and administration. “Vince helped the athletic program move forward, allowing our athletes not only to compete for championships but also to succeed in the classroom.” Utah Valley appointed Dr. Jared Sumsion to serve as the interim AD while the university searches for Otoupal’s replacement.
University of San Francisco
Penn State named Scott Sidwell the Nittany Lions new Deputy Director of Athletics- External. The move by Sidwell to leave his post as the Director of Athletics at San Francisco meant the Dons were the second institution to experience AD turnover in February. Sidwell had served in his role at USF since 2011. “Scott brings an outstanding depth and breadth of experience to Penn State, including significant success in marketing, development and facilities initiatives. He has a high level of experience with the external functions of a comprehensive athletic department and will be a great fit for Penn State and our team.” Penn State Sandy Barbour said in a release announcing Sidwell’s hire. In addition to hiring Sidwell, Penn State also extended Barbour’s contract in February. Her new five-year contract keeps her in Happy Valley through 2023.