Athletics Director Role returns to Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos announced today that Vice Chancellor David Williams will assume a bigger role at the University. Zeppos named Williams Vandy's vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletics director. The move returns the position of athletic director to Vanderbilt after nine-year absense.

At a July 12 press conference Zeppos' comments indicated that Williams would be assuming a far greater athletic role.

“It is important now that his many other duties be assumed by others so that he can focus his efforts on maintaining and building on this momentum.” said Zeppos.

Williams, who has helped turn several Commodore teams into consistently winning programs and postseason regulars, said Vanderbilt is only beginning a long term period athletics success.

“We are proud of what we have accomplished thus far, but we know that we are just at the beginning of what can and will be,” Williams said. “I am honored to lead some of the best coaches and staff in the nation as we support the outstanding efforts of our student athletes, while delivering a world-class fan experience at our athletic facilities.”

Gordon Gee sacked then athletics director Todd Turner in 2003 by removing the position of athletics director. Gee said the move was to bring athletics more in touch with the mainstream University. It also served to posture Vanderbilt athletics to receive more financial support from the university general funds. It is not known whether or not that financial advantage will continue.

Williams’ previous title was vice chancellor for university affairs and athletics, general counsel and university secretary.