TicketsOct. 20, 2005
CINCINNATI, Ohio -- Mike Thomas, who has compiled 20 years of administrative experience in college athletics, the last five as athletic director at the University of Akron, has been tapped as the University of Cincinnati's new athletic director.
Thomas, who succeeds retiring UC AD Bob Goin, will take office on Dec. 1.
"The University of Cincinnati sits at a momentous point in its history," said Thomas. "I am excited by the overwhelming potential of UC's athletic programs both in the Big East Conference and in the country."
"Our hiring of Mike Thomas sets a course for continued greatness for UC athletics," stated UC president Dr. Nancy Zimpher. "He will carry our Big East entry forward with a focus on success for our programs and our student athletes, both on and off the field."
Thomas brings diverse and comprehensive experience to the job. He spent seven years as associate athletic director at the University of Virginia, an institution known for achieving impressive success both academically and athletically, before bringing that model to Akron. Virginia finished in the top 25 in the Director's Cup in each year of Thomas' tenure there while at the same time was in the top ten nationally in student-athlete graduation rates.
Under Thomas' direction, Akron rose from last place to second among Mid-American Conference schools in the Director's Cup annual rankings. Simultaneously Akron vaulted from last to second place in the MAC Academic Achievement Awards.
| Mike Thomas Director of Athletics University of Cincinnati Administrative Experience Education Personal |
Thomas increased the financial base of the Akron athletic program through increasing corporate sponsorship levels by 500 percent and boosted annual giving to athletics to its highest level in the school's history. Community support was rallied, with marked increases shown in football and basketball attendance.
Thomas improved Akron's multimedia presence, overseeing the development of the Zips Sports Radio and Television Networks which provided UA with statewide radio coverage and increased television exposure. Akron's athletic image was re-branded, resulting in a double-digit increase in the department's licensing and merchandising royalties.
Support services and facilities for academic support for student-athletes were significantly increased, which resulted in a significant improvement in grade point averages and graduation rates of UA student-athletes.
Thomas has overseen over $140 million in facility construction and renovation, including $25 million in capital improvements to Akron's athletic facilities.
Recognized for his administrative acumen by his peers, Thomas presently serves on several national and conference committees, including the NCAA Division I Academics/Eligibility/Compliance Cabinet, NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Issues Committee, and the Division IA Athletic Directors Association Legislative Review Committee.
Thomas recently received the General Robert R. Neyland Outstanding Athletic Director Award, recognizing his achievements at the University of Akron.
Prior to his experience at Virginia, Thomas spent seven years at the University of Denver as assistant athletic director for internal operations, and one year at the University of Iowa in marketing and promotions.
Thomas, 45, received his B.S. degree in Business Administration from Colorado State University in 1983, and his M.S. degree in Athletic Administration from Western Illinois University in 1986. He and his wife, Jenifer, have four children: Vincent (a junior at the University of Notre Dame), Joseph, Michael, and Meredith.
What others are saying about Mike Thomas:
"I want to welcome Mike Thomas to the Big East. I have talked with people all over the country who know Mike well and have heard nothing but great things about him. I look forward to the opportunity of working with him."
-Mike Tranghese, Commissioner of the Big East Conference
"I really like Mike Thomas! He is an outstanding choice for Cincinnati and the Big East. He did an amazing job at Akron! The University of Cincinnati will be in outstanding hands as it moves into the future!"
-Kevin White, Director of Athletics, University of Notre Dame
"My experience with Mike Thomas at the University of Virginia was extremely positive and it will be no surprise to anyone that has worked with him to hear of his selection as the new Director of Athletics at the University of Cincinnati. I have followed his progress at the Akron and watched him excel at every level. He brings a wealth of experience to the job and the faculty, alumni, and city of Cincinnati will soon see what a great decision they have made!"
-Jim Copeland Director of Athletics, Southern Methodist University
"Mike Thomas is a superb choice! He worked on my staff at the University of Virginia and everyone knew back then that he would be a top AD! He's a tremendous administrator and someone who will bring passion, great organizational skills and a strong work ethic to UC! He is dedicated to the overall development of student-athletes and he is perfectly suited to the mission and purpose of the University of Cincinnati."
-Terry Holland, Director of Athletics, East Carolina University
"Mike Thomas is a great hire for the University of Cincinnati. Mike has a great family, a great work ethic and will undoubtedly do a tremendous job. He knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level and has great respect in our industry. I consider him a friend and look forward to working with him in his new role."
-Mike Hamilton, Director of Athletics, University of Tennessee