Welcome to College AD’s first annual NEXT UP presented by Teamworks. We’re only in Day 2 of this five-part series, and we’ve got four more gifted administrators to highlight. If you want to look back on yesterday’s honorees, you can find Day 1’s list here.
As a reminder, NEXT UP are senior level administrators, handpicked by some of the most respected athletic directors in the industry, who are believed to be ready to take the next step as athletic directors in their own right. Out of those nominated by our panel, we selected 21 NEXT UP recipients from across the country to represent this year’s class. The only limiting factor is that none of the nominees could have served as an AD previously, beyond an interim role.
Over the five days, June 13th-17th, we are revealing our inaugural honorees.
Out of respect for our seven panel members we are keeping their names anonymous, but we’re more than happy to share a few stats on what qualifies them to spot up-and-coming talent.
Without further ado, here are the next four members of the 2016 class of NEXT UP presented by Teamworks.
KELI CUNNINGHAM, WEST VIRGINIA
Executive Senior Associate AD
Career to Date: West Virginia (2010- Present); Maryland -Assistant AD (2004- 2010); BIG EAST Conference -Compliance Assistant (2003-2004)
Appointments & Accomplishments: DI Student-Athlete Reinstatement Committee; Big 12 Bylaw Committee; WVU College of Physical Activity and Social Sciences Advisory Committee
Strengths: Compliance
Why is she NEXT UP?: The role of compliance professionals has grown in the past few decades as technology has changed how we communicate and share information. Handling the tidal wave of challenges that come with a department of more than 700 athletes is no small task, but Cunningham handles them with skill. “Keli brings a lot of energy and dependability to our department, and her communication with our coaches and staff is very effective,” says WVU AD Shane Lyons. But it is her work and involvement outside the department that sets her apart. Serving as a member of the Big 12 Bylaw Committee, and the NCAA’s DI Student-Athlete Reinstatement Committee, along with her previous experience in the Big East’s compliance department, have given her a broad view of the compliance landscape. “She does a great job of monitoring the pulse of not only our department, but also the happenings nationwide in collegiate athletics,” added Lyons. “We all lean on her significantly, and she is excellent at knowing what to bring to my desk and what to handle herself. Additionally, her work with our University administration is also respected, which further adds to her ability to lead.”
CARLA WILLIAMS, GEORGIA
Deputy Director of Athletics/SWA
Career to Date: Georgia (2004- Present); Vanderbilt- Associate AD (2000- 2004); Florida State- Graduate Assistant Athletic Academic Support (1997- 2000)
Appointments & Accomplishments: College AD Top 10 Senior Women Administrators (2015); Ph.D. from Florida State in Sports and Fitness Administration/Management
Strengths: Operations
Why is she NEXT UP?: The same drive that pushed Williams as a basketball player for the Bulldogs has led her to the top of that same athletic department she played for. Responsible for four sports and five internal departments, it’s safe to say Georgia AD, Greg McGarity, has become a believer. “Carla is a remarkable leader, and is uniquely qualified to advance in our profession. Honesty, integrity, trustworthiness, selflessness and humility come to mind when I think of ways to describe Carla, and I deeply value her advice, counsel and opinion. The University of Georgia is very fortunate to have Carla on board — and I thank my lucky stars I am able to work alongside her on a daily basis.”
MARTIN JARMOND, OHIO STATE
Executive Associate Athletics Director
Career to Date: Ohio State (2009- Present); Michigan State- Assistant AD of Development (2003- 2009)
Appointments & Accomplishments: College Football Playoff Advisory Committee; NCAA DI Women’s Golf Championship Committee; John McLendon Minority Postgraduate Scholarship Committee
Strengths: Operations, Fundraising
Why is he NEXT UP?: Jarmond is a rare talent, handling both internal and external operations for one of the largest and most successful athletic departments in the country. He’s become more than just a right-hand man for OSU AD, Gene Smith, he’s become a true steward and representative of the department both inside and outside the university. “Martin is a talented leader who understands to mobilize people towards a common goal and ensure success,” says Smith. “His interpersonal skills are outstanding affording him the ability to connect and inspire.” And what an inspiration it’s been. Over a three year period, Jarmond raised more than $120 million for the “But for Ohio State…” campaign, and contributed greatly to MSU’s $1.2 billion capital campaign during his time with the school.
CHRIS BOYER, NC STATE
Deputy AD for External Operations
Career to Date: NC State (2013- Present); George Washington -Deputy Director of Athletics (2011- 2012); Maryland -Senior Associate AD (2006- 2011); Northwestern -Associate AD (2001- 2005)
Strengths: Marketing, Contract Negotiations
Why is he NEXT UP?: In his last four stops, Boyer has made an impact, negotiating deals with everyone from Under Armour and CBS Sports Properties, to Barnes & Noble. He’s been a major factor in revenue generation, as well as operations. “Chris has been diligent to go above and beyond what is expected of him in his role as Deputy AD for External Operations,” says NC State AD, Debbie Yow. “He provides a ‘value added’ edge every University would want in their AD. Through years of experience he has developed a keen sense of judgement as a sport supervisor and senior level administrator, ultimately responsible for oversight of the Marketing and Communications units, while also partnering with me to meet the needs of our men’s basketball program.”
Make sure to join us tomorrow for four more NEXT UP honorees, presented by Teamworks.