McLean departs ECSU for FSU; Little named interim
December 14, 2006
Fayetteville State University has hired Dr. Edward McLean as Director of Athletics. The announcement was made during the quarterly meeting of FSU's Board of Trustees.
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Edward McLean |
McLean comes to FSU from Elizabeth City State University where he had been Athletics Director since 1993. Both FSU and ECSU are members of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association and NCAA Division II.
A native of Red Springs, NC and a graduate of North Carolina Central University, where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees, McLean earned his doctorate from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. Prior to joining ECSU, McLean served as athletic director at Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia.
FSU Chancellor T.J. Bryan said the university found what it needs in McLean. "We are fortunate to have an athletic director with Dr. McLean's knowledge and experience," Chancellor Bryan said. "He is one of the best athletic directors not only in the storied CIAA but also among all Division II athletic conferences. We were looking for someone with his expertise to take our already thriving athletic program to new heights. I am certain he will achieve this end."
McLean was named CIAA Athletic Director of the Year in 1996-97 and 2004-05. He was chairman of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) National Football Committee-Division II from 1998-2002 and chairman of the NCAA Southern Regional Advisory Football Committee from 1998-2002.
Moving to Fayetteville State was a major decision for Dr. McLean and one he views as a positive, growth opportunity at this stage of his career.
“I am excited about the opportunity to serve Fayetteville State University, an institution that is in both the UNC system and the CIAA conference. All three of these organizations have great reputations,” said Dr. McLean. “I am familiar with how they operate and know that I can bring a great deal of knowledge and experience to Fayetteville State, leveraging their programs to higher heights.”
“My 13 years at Elizabeth City State University have allowed me to build and develop that athletics program and my expertise in leading it,” Dr. McLean continued. “I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to having served the ECSU Vikings and wish them continued success.”
Following the announcement of McLean's appointment at FSU, the ECSU Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Mr. Thurlis J. Little as Interim Director of (ECSU) Athletics to become effective immediately. Mr. Little has 32 years of experience at ECSU. In the past he served as an assistant professor, football coach, NCAA Compliance Officer, Assistant Athletic Director, Principal Director for NYSP (National Youth Sports Program) and Chair of the Health and P E Department.
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