TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) – Indiana State University has appointed a new Director of Athletics.
University President Mike Godard selected Nathan Christensen to fill the role. Christensen will start on July 1. He has served as Senior Associate Athletic Director of Development at South Dakota State University (SDSU) in Brookings, SD, since 2021. He oversaw multiple administrative units and sports. In 2021, SDSU reached a fundraising record, raising over $42 million from more than 4,100 donors.
âI knew when accepting the presidency that naming an athletic director would be a priority. In addition to Nathanâs extensive professional experience in intercollegiate athletics, I was impressed by his values and mission-based approach to support our student-athletes,â President Godard said. âHis emphasis on community engagement aligns well with Indiana Stateâs mission. I am confident Nathan will help usher in a new era of Sycamore Athletics, engaging our students, alumni, community, fans, and donors.â
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the next Director of Athletics at Indiana State University. I am grateful to President Godard and the search committee for entrusting me with this opportunity to lead Sycamore Athletics,â Christensen said. âI look forward to working in alignment with university leadership, campus partners, and my colleagues as we strive for excellence across the board to create an incredible experience for our student-athletes! My family and I are thrilled to build meaningful relationships with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and the entire community to elevate Indiana State University and Sycamore Athletics. We are looking forward to relocating to Terre Haute and deepening our connections in Vigo County and beyond.â
Before his appointment at SDSU, Christensen served at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) as Associate Athletics Director for External Affairs from May 2018 to August 2021 and as Assistant Athletics Director for Development and Director of the Panther Scholarship Club from December 2016 to May 2018.Â
According to the university, Christensen will be officially introduced during a public event. Details about the program will be announced soon.
