Interim athletic director named

Cal State Long Beach alumnus Bill Shumard was named the university's interim athletic director on Friday by President Robert Maxson.

The announcement was made after the president consulted with head coaches, athletic staff and other members of the campus community over the past week.

"I was really impressed with Bill Shumard," Maxson said. "I especially like his work ethic, his energy and his enthusiasm plus he has great people skills. He certainly has the professional qualifications with his extensive background in athletics as well as marketing.

Thanks to a group of blue chip coaches, the Cal State Long Beach athletic program has gained national respect. This really is a very good sports program and I'm confident that Bill will continue the momentum."

Shumard expressed excitement over his appointment as interim athletics director. "This isn't just a job for me," he said, "this is my alma mater. The best advantage we have at Cal State Long Beach is our own president. Dr. Maxson's optimism and belief in the of 49er athletics is contagious and his integrity is unquestioned.

Even though I will be serving as interim athletic director, I intend to work as hard as I can to live up to the confidence placed in me."

A 1972 graduate of CSULB, Shumard returned to the university in the capacity of assistant athletic director two years ago. Previously, he spent 13 years doing community relations for the Los Angeles Dodgers, three years as assistant athletic director at t he University of Southern California and three years as the athletic director at Cal State Fullerton. He currently is the assistant vice president for university relations and development.

Maxson made the interim appointment following the resignation of Dave O'Brien who has accepted the athletics director position at Temple University in Philadelphia.