It took perhaps a little longer than expected but Kansas State finally landed it's new athletic director Monday.The school introduced 38-year-old John Currie, the University of Tennessee executive associate athletic director, as the new leader of the Wildcats' athletic department to conclude its three-month search. In addition to being responsible for UT's fundraising, ticketing, public relations, media relations, marketing and broadcast and Internet initiatives, Currie also managing the coaching search in 2005 that brought Bruce Pearl to the Vols.
"We wanted to fill this position with the best candidate possible, and with John we feel we have accomplished that," said Dr. Kirk Schulz, who takes over as the KSU president on June 15. "He brings energy, integrity and experience to his new role at Kansas State and we are pleased to introduce him as our new Director of Athletics."
Currie assumes control of an athletic program that has made significant progress in men's basketball in recent years and just welcomed back Bill Snyder to revive the struggling football program and its waning interest. Snyder had been retired the past three seasons before reclaiming his old post this offseason.
Currie, a graduate of Wake Forest, has spent the last 10 years working in various capacities at Tennessee. He signed a five-year, $350,000 annual base salary with KSU.
"My family and I are thrilled to be joining the Wildcat family," Currie said. "We are anxious to get to Manhattan and I am looking forward to this incredible opportunity."
