Last modified: Monday, April 7, 2003
Clapacs named as IU athletics director
Indiana University Interim President Gerald Bepko today (April 7) named Terry Clapacs to lead the university's athletics programs. Clapacs will become athletics director effective immediately and also will retain his position as vice president and chief administrative officer.
Clapacs will maintain his dual role until at least June 30, 2004. Bepko said he and Clapacs have agreed to that time frame as a minimum to allow the next IU president the opportunity to consult on longer-term leadership issues in athletics. The IU Board of Trustees hopes to announce the selection of a new president by June 30, 2003.
"Terry's success in leading the athletics department is recognized across the Indiana University community," Bepko said. "Terry has served IU for nearly 40 years. I expect Terry to use his wealth of university knowledge, his leadership skills and his administrative experience to continue to unify the athletics department and plan for the future."
Clapacs has served as interim athletics director since Nov. 6, 2002.
"I've consulted with many individuals about this appointment, and I'm confident this is the right step forward for the university. Terry's selection is broadly supported," Bepko said.
Clapacs said his primary focus for athletics will be to restructure the budget, find ways to increase revenue, enhance diversity and bring a strategic focus to planning for physical facilities.
"I've had a terrific experience working with our student-athletes, coaches and staff in the past six months, and I look forward to the challenges of leading the athletics department as we move ahead. My primary focus will be on athletics for the next 18 months," said Clapacs.
Jerry Yeagley, head men's soccer coach and chair of the coaches' cabinet, said IU coaches are extremely pleased with Clapacs' appointment.
"We went to President Bepko as a group with unanimous support. The department will be under outstanding leadership," Yeagley said. "At his first meeting with coaches, Terry made it very apparent he was there to work with us, get our input and work with student-athletes. His experience and outstanding leadership are a real plus for athletics."
Clapacs said he has asked Paul Sullivan, deputy vice president for administration, to play an expanded role in the daily operation of various administrative units.
"Paul will be a direct liaison for me. He will interact daily with those department heads who are directly responsible for administrative support of the university," Clapacs said.
"At the same time, I'll continue to provide strategic leadership on administrative matters in my capacity as vice president. Everyone I work with in the administrative area has stepped up to the task of assuming additional responsibilities. That has enabled me to focus attention where needed," he said.
Clapacs will be paid $290,000 in his combined position. That represents a base salary of $250,000 plus a $40,000 supplement annually while he serves in both positions.
