Bates Takes Miami (Ohio) Athletic Director Post 11/5/02

Miami University (Ohio) Release

Brad Bates, who came to Vanderbilt in 1985 as strength and conditioning coach and rose to the Senior Associate Director of Athletics, today was named Director of Athletics at Miami (Ohio).

During his 17 Vanderbilt years, Bates had been intricately involved in nearly every phase of the Commodore program and leaves as one of the most respected and admired people on campus.

“The lessons and mentors I’ve been fortunate to acquire at Vanderbilt have provided me with the opportunity to be the Director of Athletics at Miami,” Bates says.

“Todd Turner is clearly the best Athletic Director in the nation.” Bates continues. “The progress of our department since his arrival has been nothing short of phenomenal. Those loyal to the program are soon to experience the rewards of his vision. I’ve learned from the best.

“Under the leadership of Chancellor Gee and Todd Turner, Vanderbilt Athletics is poised for greatness. The quality of coaches at Vanderbilt is extraordinary. They are people who are highly competitive, care about their student-athletes, love the University and are good citizens of the community.

“Vanderbilt is a special place,” Bates concludes. “Although we won’t physically be in Nashville we will forever be Commodores.”

Bates earned his Ph.D. degree from Vanderbilt in 1998, an extraordinary achievement in light of his many responsibilities within McGugin Center. His bachelors and masters degrees were from the University of Michigan, where he
was a starting defensive back for Bo Schembechler.

“As happy as I am for Brad and Michelle, I am happier for our profession,” says Vanderbilt Director of Athletics Todd Turner. “Brad’s values and personal integrity are exactly what is needed in the leadership positions of today’s collegiate athletics.”

Turner called Bates “a great friend” and continued that “he is a bright, hard-working, sensitive guy with excellent judgement and a passion for students.”

Bates was officially introduced as Miami’s Director of Athletics today and is expected to begin his new assignment by December 1.