PULLMAN, Wash – A new era of Washington State University sports officially began Monday in Pullman.
WSU formally introduced Jon Haarlow as the 16th athletic director in school history.
Haarlow took the reigns April 7th, but was formally introduced at a news conference Monday in Pullman.
“This means everything to me,” Haarlow said, thanking his family, the university, WSU coaches and current and former student athletes. He choked up as he thanked his parents, his kids and his wife.
Haarlow takes over for Anne McCoy, who was dismissed by the university in late November.
Haarlow has served as interim AD ever since.
In that time, Haarlow directed the hiring of new football coach Kirby Moore and soccer coach Chris Citowicki.
Haarlow said his vision is grounded in three principles: student-athlete success, competitive excellence and financial strength and innovation.
“The future of college athletics requires discipline, fiscal management and creative revenue strategies,” he said. “We’ll be proactive, bold and aggressive in activating our 250,000 living alumni.”
That includes ticket sales and donations.
“It all matters and it has never mattered more than it does right now,” he said. “We’re heading into a new era, but our next is now. We need everyone.”
He’s also led several fundraising efforts, including a plan to raise more than $10 million for the Football Fan Experience Project.
Haarlow takes the job at a pivotal time for WSU athletics. Not only will the university see expansion in the Pac-12 this summer, it’s also dealing with demands for NIL money and other funding to draw athletes and fans to the Palouse.
President Betsy Cantwell said this moment in time is a “complete disruption” in college athletics across the country.
“For that reason, Jon Haarlow is the perfect leader at the moment,” President Cantwell said. He said Haarlow can lead through change with a great understanding of the Pac-12. She also called him an “undying Coug” who “bleeds crimson.”
Haarlow first joined WSU athletics in 2021. He has also worked in athletics at Lamar University, Abilene Christian and University of New Mexico.
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