Western Michigan University Named Alex Gary Athletic Director

The university selected the former Western Carolina athletic director to lead its athletic department.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in People

Western Michigan University Named Alex Gary Athletic Director

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Western Michigan University has appointed Alex Gary as its new vice president and director of athletics. The hiring concludes a search process led by the university Board of Trustees and campus partners following the departure of Dan Bartholomae.

Why it matters

University leadership prioritized candidates with strong fundraising capabilities and significant administrative experience to guide the department. Gary was selected for his values and his proven track record in athletics management.

Alex Gary brings five years of experience as an athletic director at Western Carolina University and one year as a deputy athletic director at Southern Methodist University. These figures represent his recent administrative background in collegiate sports.

The players

Alex Gary

He is the newly appointed vice president and director of athletics at Western Michigan University who previously led Western Carolina University.

Dan Bartholomae

He is the former athletic director at Western Michigan University who transitioned to a leadership role at Michigan State University in July 2026.

The details

Western Michigan University conducted an extensive search involving the Board of Trustees and various campus partners to fill the vacancy left by Dan Bartholomae. Bartholomae recently left the Kalamazoo institution to lead Michigan State University.

July 2026: Dan Bartholomae vacated the position at Western Michigan University.
September 28, 2026: Western Michigan University officially named Alex Gary as the new athletic director.
October 1, 2026: An introductory press conference for the new director is scheduled.

Market Landscape

This appointment follows the leadership vacancy created by the July 2026 departure of Dan Bartholomae from Western Michigan University. The hiring positions the university to stabilize its departmental management during a period of competitive flux in collegiate athletics.

The transition in athletic leadership may signal changes to departmental fundraising strategies and institutional priorities. Local stakeholders and university partners can expect updates on the new director's long-term vision during the upcoming press conference.

The takeaway

The appointment of a new director provides clear leadership continuity for Western Michigan University athletics following a brief transition period. Consistent administrative oversight is essential for maintaining the university's fundraising momentum and program stability.