Tallahassee Community College appoints Rob Chaney as director of athletics
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (June 4, 2013) – Tallahassee Community College President Jim Murdaugh has appointed Rob Chaney as the College's first-ever full-time director of athletics.
Chaney, 39, became TCC's fifth athletic director on January 1, 2009, and, like his four predecessors – Jeb Blackburn, Mike Gillespie, Mike McLeod and Brian Anweiler – the position was technically part-time and carried out as part of a dual-role at the College.
After volunteering with the Eagles in 1998-99, Chaney joined TCC on a full-time basis December 1, 1999, and, for the next 13 ½ years, worked as a communications specialist in the College's Office of Communications & Public Information while also being involved in all aspects of athletics. However, effective April 1, he officially moved into the director's role and began making a gradual transition out of his original job assignment.
"Rob brings his impressive experience with our athletics programs, a dedication to growing athletics opportunities for students and a passion for the success of our students to the position," said Murdaugh.
Chaney will report directly to Dr. Sally Search, TCC's vice president for student affairs, and serve on her leadership team.
"I'm very appreciative of President Murdaugh and Vice President (Dr. Sally) Search for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading Tallahassee Community College's athletic program," said Chaney. "At the same time, I would like to thank my colleagues in the Office of Communications & Public Information, who graciously allowed me to devote much of time to athletics over the years."
As director of athletics, most of Chaney's roles and responsibilities are carry overs, including budget oversight for each of the department's four teams; ensuring compliance with institution, state and national standards; fund-raising; and coordinating media relations and marketing efforts for the department. However, one major change will accompany the transition – Chaney will provide direct supervision over all coaches and staff members.
"I see the position as one of service and advocacy, particularly on behalf of the student-athletes and coaches," added Chaney, "and I firmly believe the opportunity to devote my full time and attention (to athletics) will be a great asset to all parties."
Moving forward, Chaney hopes to explore ways to grow the program, both on campus and in the community, while supporting the College's mission of preparing students for success.
"TCC Athletics has a proven track record and has enjoyed much success, but there is room for growth as a department and I believe our best days are ahead of us," he stated.
A native of Section, Ala., Chaney graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor's in mass communication in 1996 and earned his master's in Christian education from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.
Chaney is a member of CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America) and NATYCAA (National Alliance of Two Year College Athletic Administrators. He is also a member of the Florida College System Activities Association's Council for Athletic Affairs (CAA) and sits on the advisory committee for the Tallahassee Sports Council.
He is married to the former Casi Stone, and the couple has a two-year old daughter, Aubri Leigh.