Phil DiStefano, provost of the University of Colorado at Boulder, today announced the formation of a search committee charged with identifying outstanding candidates for the permanent position of Director of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Dick Tharp resigned the position, effective Nov. 30, and long-time athletics administrator Jack Lengyel was hired to fill the interim position while a search is conducted.
DiStefano also said a consulting firm, Neinas Sports Services, has been selected to assist the committee in its work.
Members of the search committee include:
- Ric Porreca, search committee chair, senior vice chancellor and chief financial officer
- Mel Branch, professor of mechanical engineering and member of the Academic Policy Board (APB)
- Liz Bradley, department chair and professor of computer sciences and APB member
- Karen Morrison, associate athletics director, athletics compliance officer and APB member
- Carly Newlands, CU-Boulder student and athlete, and chair of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee
- Mark Wetmore, head coach of track and cross-country
- Peter Steinhauer, member of the Board of Regents and chair of the board's athletics subcommittee
- Joe Romig, alumnus, former student-athlete and Rhodes Scholar
- Louise Romero, ex-officio non-voting member, University Counsel
"We are fortunate that these outstanding individuals have agreed to serve the university by helping us identify the best possible person for the position of Athletics Director," DiStefano said. "The group includes several members of the Academic Policy Board, which continues to advise me on academic issues related to athletics. In addition, the entire search committee brings a wide range of experience and a strong concern for the best interests of student-athletes."
CU-Boulder Chancellor Richard L. Byyny also praised the caliber of the committee membership. "I am delighted that Provost DiStefano has formed such a stellar group representing faculty, staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders in the future of the program. I look forward to their recommendations for outstanding finalists."
CU President Elizabeth Hoffman said, "As the campus launches its search for a permanent Athletics Director, I want to emphasize my strong commitment to building a competitive athletics program that reflects the values of this great university.
"Let me be clear. In all our sports programs, we intend to pursue a winning tradition in athletic performance, academic achievement and personal character," Hoffman said. "With the support of our fans and campus community, we will move forward with pride in the accomplishments of our athletics programs."
The search committee will begin its work as soon as possible, DiStefano said.
The Neinas Sports Services firm of Boulder was selected through the State of Colorado bid and procurement process. Headed by Chuck Neinas, the firm will help the committee identify highly qualified and interested candidates for the Athletics Director position.
The firm will be paid a fee of about $35,000, plus expenses not to exceed $10,000, for its services, DiStefano said.