I am very pleased to announce that after an extensive nationwide search, Cleveland State has named John Parry to the position of athletic director, effective April 15. Parry has served as interim director since last spring, and during that time has demonstrated an ability to provide effective and creative leadership in athletics.

John arrived at CSU last year with outstanding credentials and an impressive track record. He was instrumental in negotiating contracts with Global Spectrum, the management company at the Wolstein Center, and with Nelligan Sports Management, demonstrating his considerable abilities in contract and financial management. And, he maintains our strong commitment to the academic success of our student-athletes.

Parry served as athletic director for Butler University from 1990 to 2006, during which time the University won the Horizon League All Sport trophy four times. He was also instrumental in increasing the program's sponsorship income and fundraising revenue.

Prior to his work at Butler, Parry was director of athletics for Brown University, where he oversaw 30 varsity teams and helped revitalize the school's crew, track and wrestling programs. A graduate of Brown himself, with a master's in business administration from the Wharton School of Finance and Commerce, Parry played varsity football, basketball and lacrosse.

Please join me in congratulating John for an excellent year at CSU as well as his new position. We all look forward to another reason to be proud to be a Viking.