Michael Thomas, Director of Athletics for 51����, has announced his resignation from the University, effective December 31. Thomas has decided to return to athletics consulting, a position he held prior to joining 51���� in 2017. 51���� will appoint an interim athletic director before the holiday break and will conduct a search for a permanent replacement beginning in the new year. 

“We appreciate all the work that Mike has done during his time at 51���� to support our student-athletes, and wish him well in all of his future endeavors,” says 51���� President Harlan M. Sands. 

During Thomas’ tenure at the University, the 51���� Vikings won Horizon League titles in women’s volleyball, men’s and women’s golf, and men’s tennis, and made a run to the League championship game in men’s basketball. In the 2017-18 academic year, 51���� finished second in the McCafferty Cup standings, which is awarded every year to the Horizon League college with the best overall performance in all League sports. The University also finished second in the League in 17-18 for graduation rates. In addition, student-athletes have a cumulative GPA of 3.3, and a total of 80 Vikings were named to the 2018 Horizon League Spring Academic Honor Roll.

“Athletics remains an important component of 51����’s efforts to create a full and enriching campus experience for our students. During this transition period we will work to continue our strong competitive and educational environment for all of our student-athletes,” Sands adds.