By Mike Beas
July 03, 2008 11:38 pm
—
ANDERSON — For the past five weeks, the word “interim” has been part of Marcie Taylor’s job title at Anderson University, three syllables she hoped to eventually shed.
Taylor did so on Thursday with the announcement she had been named AU’s new athletic director for the 2008-09 school year.
“Yes, it does feel good to have that removed,” laughed Taylor, the associate A.D. since 2005 who took on added responsibility with the recent departure of former athletic director Michael Zapolski. “But I understand the huge responsibility and obligation that go along with it.”
A 1984 AU graduate who had been the women’s basketball coach since 1990, Taylor won’t need to spend countless hours making introductions. Her familiarity with the campus and its workings should provide for a seamless transition.
“I feel very blessed and honored to be given this opportunity,” said Taylor, who is also AU’s women’s golf coach. “We have made many positive strides the last five years under Michael Zapolski, and having been an associate (A.D.) for three of those years I feel very prepared for this role.
“As an alumna, I know what a special and unique place Anderson University is and I’m grateful for this opportunity. I look forward to continuing to work with my coaching colleagues and the administration to promote the athletic program and to enhance its overall value to the institution.”
Taylor has taught in the kinesiology department at Anderson University, namely in the areas of exercise physiology, Kkinesiology and team sports and instructional strategies for middle school health and physical education.
Under her guidance, the AU women’s basketball program posted a winning record in five of the last eight years, including a 21-7 record in 2002, when the Lady Ravens captured the HCAC title and advanced to the NCAA Div. III national tournament.
“Marcie Taylor brings devotion to athletes, coaches and programs and to the wider mission of Anderson University,” said Dr. James L. Edwards, president of Anderson University. “Over these years as a teacher and coach, she has equipped herself to take on this assignment and to move our intercollegiate athletic programs to greater successes.
“We are delighted to have her leadership in this major institutional role.”
A native of Bowdon, N.D., Taylor came to AU in 1980. She graduated with a bachelor of arts in secondary education/physical education and a minor in biology.
Athletically, Taylor was a guard for the Ravens from 1980 to 1984.
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.