CSU Bakersfield Hired New Athletic Director
The university appointed Andy Fiske to lead its athletics department following a period of significant scandal.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in People
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California State University Bakersfield has hired Andy Fiske as its new athletic director. Fiske transitions into the role from the athletic program at Sacramento State to lead the Bakersfield campus.
Why it matters
The university appointed Fiske to reshape the athletic program's culture after recent controversies involving harassment allegations and criminal activity. CSUB previously fired its former athletic director and head men's basketball coach, Rod Barnes.
The transition follows an investigation into activities spanning 3 states where pimping and pandering occurred. Former staff member Kevin Mays pleaded no contest to these charges, as well as child pornography and drug possession while armed.
The players
Andy Fiske
He is the newly appointed athletic director at CSU Bakersfield who previously worked within the athletic program at Sacramento State.
Kevin Mays
He is a former staff member who pleaded no contest to charges including pimping, child pornography possession, and drug possession while armed.
Rod Barnes
He is the former athletic director and head men's basketball coach who was fired from the university following various scandals.
The details
Fiske intends to meet with coaches, staff, and local stakeholders to evaluate the department's current opportunities and challenges. He plans to implement new monitoring and measurement systems designed to rebuild and maintain a positive program culture with the goal of becoming the top sporting organization in Kern County.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: CSUB officially hired Andy Fiske as the new athletic director.
Market Landscape
This leadership change reflects a broader industry trend where universities are aggressively restructuring athletic departments to address internal misconduct. By installing new leadership, CSUB aims to stabilize its standing against regional competitors and restore institutional reputation.
Local supporters and students can expect changes to how the athletic department is managed and monitored moving forward. The shift in leadership is a direct attempt to provide a more stable and professional environment for student-athletes and the campus community.
The takeaway
The appointment of a new director signals a strategic pivot toward rigorous internal oversight and accountability for the athletic department. Success for the new administration will likely be measured by the program's ability to maintain a positive culture while navigating ongoing legal challenges.
Further reading
For more information on administrative changes, visit the People section.
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Do you believe new leadership can effectively reform a university athletic program's internal culture?
