Stetson University appoints seasoned veteran Ricky Ray as Athletic Director

Stetson University in DeLAND, Fla., has announced the hiring of Ricky Ray as the new director of athletics, replacing the retiring Jeff Altier after 27 years of service. Ray, who currently serves as the executive associate athletics director for external operations at William & Mary, will officially take on his new role on May 6.

The university will welcome Ray to campus with a special event open to the public at 2 p.m. on Friday at the Lynn Presentation Room in the Marshall & Vera Lea Rinker Welcome Center. This marks a significant transition for Stetson’s athletics department, which consists of 85 coaches and staff supporting over 440 student-athletes across 18 teams.

Ray brings over 20 years of experience in intercollegiate and professional sports, as well as a doctorate of education degree from Marshall University. During his time at William & Mary, he achieved notable success in overseeing various aspects of the college’s NCAA Division I sports programs, including marketing, ticketing, and communications.

Stetson President Christopher F. Roellke expressed excitement about Ray’s appointment, highlighting his track record as an excellent fundraiser and his commitment to promoting student-athlete well-being and community engagement through athletics. With Ray’s leadership, Stetson aims to build on recent successes, such as the men’s basketball team’s first appearance in the NCAA Tournament, and continue to elevate the overall athletic program.