Winston-Salem State University announced today a three-year extension to the contract of Athletics Director Tonia Walker. Walker has served in the role since May 2014 and has led the Rams athletic department to success on the field and in the classroom.
In her tenure, the Rams have taken home 14 CIAA championships. Student-athletes have also shined in the classroom, with more than 100 of them named to the Dean’s List for Fall 2016. The average GPA of student-athletes has increased from 2.80 to 2.93 from Fall 2014 to Fall 2016, and the graduation rate of student-athletes surpasses the university’s graduation rate by 10 percent. Additionally, since Walker assumed the director of athletics position, the department has seen a 34 percent increase in athletics giving and a 29 percent increase in ticket sales.
“Tonia Walker is undoubtedly the right choice for WSSU,” said Chancellor Elwood L. Robinson. “I believe she is one of the finest ADs in the country. Her commitment to our students is demonstrated in their success both on and off the field. She is a tremendous asset to the university and to college athletics.”
Named the 2015-16 CIAA Athletic Director of the Year and the 2016 Administrator of the Year for the National Association for Collegiate Athletics Administrators, Walker works to continuously advocate for and champion WSSU student-athletes and opportunities for women and minorities. She was one of eight participants around the country selected for the NCAA Fellows Leadership Development Program. She is currently a member of the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators (NACWAA) and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association as well as the Black Women Sports Foundation.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead the department of athletics at Winston-Salem State University,” said Walker. “We have been able to accomplish some amazing things with the support of the administration, alumni, supporters, and a phenomenal staff. I look forward to our continued journey together.”
Courtesy: WSSU Athletics
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