MISSOULA, Mont. – After conducting a nationwide search, President Royce Engstrom has named Kent Haslam the next director of athletics at The University of Montana.
Haslam, currently associate athletic director for development with the UM Foundation, will start his new duties Sept. 17.
“I believe Kent Haslam is the right person to lead The University of Montana athletic program into one of national distinction for athletics, academics and campus and community involvement,” Engstrom said.
“I am honored to be named the new director of athletics at The University of Montana,” Haslam said. “I have tremendous respect for the tradition and history of this great University and look forward to helping advance the overall mission of UM.
“I believe strongly in the role that college athletics plays on a university campus – a role that unites, builds pride and serves the student-athletes and community. I look forward to advancing a vision focused on academic success, athletic excellence and community service,” he said. Haslam was one of four finalists who recently interviewed on campus.
Kent: Congratulations on your new appointment; the right decision was made in your selection. I know you work closely with Greg Sundberg and with you two doing the things you have been doing you will get the U back to where it needs to be.
Congratulations Kent.I’ve been pulling for you all along. I plan to personally thank President Engstrom for his decision this weekend during the pre-game brunch prior to the Liberty Game. I’ve enjoyed working with you through the Sidney GSA and am confident in your ability to lead UM Athletics into the future. I look forward to working with your administration to strengthen the University and the GSA. Go Griz!