July 26, 2021–Dr. Josh Looney, vice president of intercollegiate athletics at Missouri Western State University, has accepted the position of director of athletics at University of North Alabama, an NCAA Division I school in Florence, Alabama, and will begin his tenure there as of September 1, 2021.
“I am extremely grateful to Josh for all that he has done for Missouri Western,” said Dr. Elizabeth Kennedy, Missouri Western’s president. “His positive attitude, his work ethic, his creative problem-solving – these characteristics have been tremendous assets and inspiration not only to the Department of Athletics but to the University as a whole. He leaves behind a solid foundation for his successor to build on and take us to even greater heights. While we will miss Josh, we’re excited about the journey ahead for him and know that he will continue to accomplish great things.”
“My family and I are so grateful for our time at Missouri Western and in the St. Joseph community,” Looney said. “Our daughters have had the incredible opportunity to grow up around Griffon student-athletes, and they go to bed most nights with stories about Max Griffon and ‘No Boo-Cats.’ Griffon coaches and student-athletes have accomplished much during the past four years, spanning many different areas, but the success we’ve had has always been the result of ‘Griffs Supporting Griffs.’ It’s what makes this place special. Our family will continue to cheer and support all of the successes that are ahead at MWSU…the best is yet to come. Thank you and Griff Up!”
Looney’s time at Missouri Western has been marked by success in the classroom, in the community and in competition. Academically, Griffon student-athletes have set new records for departmental GPA for seven consecutive semesters. In the community, Missouri Western has been recognized with three consecutive NCAA Awards of Excellence for its community contributions. Athletically, numerous Griffon teams have had success, with 11 different teams making NCAA Division II postseason appearances.
Looney’s tenure has also brought facility improvements, including a full renovation of the MWSU Fieldhouse, the Bill Snyder Pavilion at Spratt Memorial Stadium and locker room renovations for several teams. A former employee of the Kansas City Chiefs, Looney helped secure a two-year training camp extension with the NFL franchise shortly after his arrival, and negotiated a new multi-year agreement in 2020. The Chiefs open their 11th training camp at Missouri Western this week.
The University will begin the search for Looney’s successor immediately.
At North Alabama, Looney will succeed another former Missouri Western athletic director. Mark Linder led Griffon Athletics for four years before taking over in Florence in 2007. He stepped down at UNA earlier this year.
Missouri Western State University is a student-centered learning community preparing individuals for lives of excellence through applied learning. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit missouriwestern.edu.