Valpo Names Next Athletic Director
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Valparaiso University has named Charles Small as its next director of athletics, becoming just the third person to hold the position in 43 years. Small, who will begin the role on July 1, has spent the last four years with the athletic department at Iowa State University.
He was senior associate athletic director for student services at ISU. Small earned his Doctor of Education from the University of Pittsburgh in 2013.
“He will be a great asset to Valpo Athletics programs, our student-athletes and the larger Valpo community,” said Valparaiso University President Jose Padilla. His experience in Division I basketball and at the many levels of administration in collegiate athletic programs makes him a perfect fit for the Athletic Director position. Charles is a man of faith who brings a great deal of knowledge and energy to Valpo Athletics.”
Valpo says Smith will not only help prepare student-athletes to lead and serve through exceptional experiences in athletics, but also maintain the department’s core values of good character, integrity, and service.
“Valparaiso University’s legacy of preparing students to lead and serve in both church and society aligns with my core values,” said Smith. “I look forward to embarking on a journey with our coaches and administrators to make a concerted effort to help Valpo student-athletes flourish holistically and promote synergy among the Valpo stakeholders to achieve comprehensive excellence.”
Small has held a variety of jobs at the University of Arkansas, University of New Orleans, and University of Pittsburgh, which is Smith’s alma mater. As an undergraduate at Pitt, Small was a four-year member of the men’s NCAA Division 1 basketball program, earning three letters.