East
Central University is going within the family to hire its new director of
athletics.
“We
received numerous qualified applications from all over,” said ECU President
John Hargrave. “But at the end of the day we decided that the best person for
the job was right here on campus. We are very excited to have found such an
outstanding person. He really encompasses everything we were looking for.”
Dr.
Jeff S. Williams, who has served as chair of ECU’s Department of Kinesiology
for the past two years, will assume the director of athletics post, beginning
Jan. 1, 2013.
“I
really appreciate this opportunity,” said Williams. “I look forward to
continuing the successful progress of the ECU athletic programs. I believe in
the NCAA Division II philosophy – equally balancing athletics and academics for
the student-athlete. Our ultimate goal is for our student-athletes to earn
their degrees. I believe we have coaches and student-athletes that appreciate
and embrace this balanced approach.”
Prior
to serving as chair of ECU’s Kinesiology Department, Williams was director of
ECU’s Athletic Training Education Program, Coordinator of the Master of
Secondary Education – Sports Administration Program at ECU and head athletic
trainer at the Ada institution.
Williams,
who has served as an assistant professor and was tenured at ECU in 2012,
received his doctorate of philosophy from the University of Oklahoma in 2011,
master of human relations from OU in 1999 and a bachelor of science in health
and sports sciences from OU, with an emphasis on exercise science, in 1996.
He
attended ECU from 1991-1993.
Williams’
other professional credits include clinical instructor and supervisor of the
athletic training program at Rose State College (1997-1999), Midwest Regional
Medical Center Sports Medicine Program Coordinator (1997-1999) and Physical
Performance Center Staff Certified Athletic Trainer in Norman (1996-1997).
He
replaces Matt McGaha, who has served as the interim director of athletics since
August.
“I
want to thank and express my appreciation for the great job that Matt McGaha
did as interim director of athletics. He did a solid job in this transition
phase toward a new A.D.,” said Hargrave.
Williams’
wife is Shelly (Jeter) both graduated from Latta High School and she also
attended ECU. Shelly is currently the speech language pathologist for Latta.
They have three children – Jace, 13; Kale, 9; and Kate, 7.
“We
came back here 14 years ago to raise our family. The people are what make ECU
and Ada great,” Williams said. “The future of ECU athletics looks great. I
appreciate President Hargrave placing his trust in me to lead the program.”
The
search committee consisted of community leaders and members of ECU faculty,
administration and athletic department.
