Western Colorado University to Launch National Search for Next Athletic Director

Western Colorado University will launch a national search for its next Director of Athletics following the announcement that Miles Van Hee will be stepping away from the role after a career spanning more than three decades.

Van Hee, a former Mountaineer All-American wrestler and nationally recognized coach, has served as Western’s athletic director since 2017. Under his leadership, Mountaineer Athletics expanded its fundraising capacity, completed major facility upgrades, and maintained a focus on academic success and the student-athlete experience.

In January, Western will begin a national search to identify the University’s next athletic director, with the goal of finding a leader who can build on that foundation while guiding Mountaineer Athletics through a rapidly evolving landscape.

“Western has benefited enormously from Miles’ leadership, vision, and long-standing commitment to this institution,” Western’s President Brad Baca said. “This national search is an opportunity to identify a leader who understands and embraces the values of Division II athletics, the importance of the student-athlete experience, and the unique role Western plays in our community.”

An event to honor Miles’ contributions to Western is scheduled for Monday, January 26, from 5-7 pm in the University Center Ballroom. The Public is welcome to attend.