Leadership Change in Intercollegiate Athletics

February 24, 2023

Cooper Jones, who has led Intercollegiate Athletics & Recreational Sports at Cal Poly Humboldt for the last two years, is stepping down.

He has accepted a new role as Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics with University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. In that role, he will be responsible for administering all athletics administration and fundraising in support of a new Greatness Through Virtue Strategic Plan.

Jones will make the transition in coming weeks.

"I appreciate everything my campus colleagues have contributed collectively and individually to create meaningful change during my tenure.  I know that Cal Poly Humboldt will continue to do great things for the benefit of all students, staff and coaches,” Jones said. "While the next phase of our family's journey will take us away from the Redwood Curtain, we will always be 'Lumberjacks' and look forward to the next chapter of growth and success at Cal Poly Humboldt."

During his time at Cal Poly Humboldt, Jones was focused on creating strong structures and expectations for Lumberjack Athletics, including success in competition and in the classroom as well as community service. He launched the new NCAA sport of Women’s Triathlon, began planning for creation of other new NCAA sports, and worked to develop a vision for strengthening Athletics for the long-term. He also prioritized community outreach and enhancement of fundraising efforts.

“Cooper has provided important leadership during some challenging times of change in Intercollegiate Athletics and in Recreational Sports, and I am truly thankful for that,” said Cal Poly Humboldt President Tom Jackson, Jr. “I expect he will do an amazing job in this new role, and I wish him all the best.”

Information on interim leadership and plans for permanently filling the vacancy for Director of Intercollegiate Athletics & Recreational Sports will be shared soon.

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