Matt Roan, the current athletic director at Eastern Kentucky, is poised to take on a new challenge as the next athletic director at James Madison University (JMU). According to reports, Roan will step into the role previously held by Jeff Bourne, who is retiring after two decades of service at JMU.
Roan, a Virginia native with a law degree from the University of Kentucky, has made a significant impact during his time at EKU. Since assuming the role of AD in 2020, Roan has demonstrated strong leadership skills, particularly in navigating the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of Roan’s notable achievements at EKU was the creation of the EKU Athletics Change Coalition, which focused on promoting a sense of belonging within college athletics. Additionally, he oversaw a successful nine-game fall football season in 2020, with two nationally televised games against FBS opponents.
Under Roan’s leadership, EKU’s athletic department saw a substantial increase in contributions, signaling financial growth and stability. He also prioritized student-athlete mental health and community service, hiring the school’s first Director of Student-Athlete Mental Health in 2023.
As Roan prepares to transition to JMU, he will face new challenges in a rapidly evolving college sports landscape. With changes such as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules, the transfer portal, and potential athlete compensation reforms, JMU will rely on Roan’s strategic vision and adaptability to maintain its athletic success.
Roan’s track record of success and commitment to the well-being of student-athletes make him a promising choice for the AD role at JMU. His appointment is expected to be presented to the Board of Visitors later this week, marking the beginning of a new chapter for JMU athletics under Roan’s leadership.