UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State will soon launch a nationwide search for a new vice president for Intercollegiate Athletics. The University will work with TurnkeyZRG, the leading executive search firm in the sports and entertainment industries, to recruit Penn State’s next vice president for Intercollegiate Athletics (ICA)/athletic director.
Sandy Barbour, who currently serves in this leadership role, announced in March her intention to retire this summer, following eight years of service.
The search firm will assist the University in identifying and recruiting outstanding prospects into the search pool. President-elect Neeli Bendapudi will lead the selection of the next vice president for ICA/athletic director, a direct report, by July 1. Additional information around the search process will be forthcoming.
“Penn State has one of the most successful athletics programs in the country, with a proven track record for educating and graduating our talented student-athletes. Our partnership with TurnkeyZRG will be key to identifying a leader who is well positioned to further elevate the exceptional Penn State athletics experience,” Bendapudi said. “The University will seek a visionary leader to uphold the Nittany Lions’ demonstrated tradition of excellence on and off the field and support the continued development of our students, coaches and staff.”
Reporting directly to Penn State’s president, the vice president for Intercollegiate Athletics oversees the University’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletics program, 31 varsity sports, more than 800 student-athletes and 340 staff, and is responsible for the financial management of the entire athletics division, which is separate from the University’s budget.
According to Bendapudi, there are critical needs and opportunities ahead for Penn State — from fundraising to facilities to name, image and likeness considerations — that require an outstanding candidate who can not only meet these challenges but also model the University and alumni community’s commitment to academic achievement and student success alongside athletic excellence.
The vice president for Intercollegiate Athletics provides strategic leadership, direction and oversight for all aspects of the best-in-class athletics program; serves on President’s Council to advise on issues and concerns regarding Intercollegiate Athletics; and manages a number of large and complex facilities, including the 107,000-seat Beaver Stadium, 5,700-seat Pegula Ice Arena, 1,300-seat Panzer Stadium and 118,000-square-foot Holuba Hall.
In its history, Penn State has won 80 national team championships and 118 Big Ten championships. Penn State student-athletes consistently excel academically and have record graduation rates.
To learn more about Penn State Athletics, visit gopsusports.com.