University Search for First AD Narrows to Four

Texas A&M International University's nationwide search for its first Athletic Director has narrowed to four candidates from a pool of 30-plus candidates.

The new Athletic Director will be charged with developing the University athletic program from the ground up, said Search Committee chair Dr. Jerry Thompson, dean of the University's College of Arts and Humanities.

"It's a considerable charge and the ideal candidate will have experience at building programs, maintaining programs and seeking support for them as well. We have been very impressed by the calibre of candidates that have applied for consideration and believe that we have narrowed our national search to four very viable candidates," Dr. Thompson explained.

The candidates and current locations are:

Stephen P. Garippa - Director of Athletics and Physical Education, Southwestern Assemblies of God University, Waxahachie, Texas.

John Garvilla - Soccer Coach and Director, Coast to Coast Soccer Academy, Milligan College, Johnson City, Tennessee.

Lyle Smith - Head Baseball Coach, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Michael Stehlik - Coordinator of Athletic Fundraising and Women's Soccer Coach, Gustavus Adolphus College, Scandia, Minnesota.

The candidates will be visiting the University campus over the next three weeks for interviews with University students, faculty and staff.

Dr. Thompson said the committee will recommend its lead candidates to University president Dr. Charles Jennett for final selection.

It is hoped that the new Texas A&M International University Athletic Director will be in place by the start of the Fall semester.

For additional information, please contact Search Committee Chair Dr. Thompson at 326.2460.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu