Erin Sullivan, a 20-year veteran of Blue Devil Athletics, will become University of Wisconsin-Stout’s next director of Athletics and Recreation on July 1, 2025.
Sullivan, who has served as deputy director of Athletics since 2022, will fill the vacancy left by Duey Naatz, who announced his retirement earlier this year. Sullivan was hired following a national search, Chancellor Katherine Frank announced this week.
“With a proven record of leadership and a deep commitment to student-athlete success, Erin will be instrumental in fostering a championship culture at UW-Stout,” Frank said. “Her vision aligns perfectly with our goal to achieve excellence in competition, while also developing well-rounded individuals who excel both on and off the field. Together, we will continue to elevate our programs and create an environment where every student-athlete can reach their full potential academically and athletically at our polytechnic university.”
Sullivan holds an M.S. in education from UW-Stout and a B.S. in sport management from UW-Parkside, where she competed on the basketball team. She credits her participation in the 2023-24 cohort of the NCAA Pathway Program, a yearlong initiative designed to prepare senior-level athletics administrators for their next career steps, with equipping her for her new job.
“I’m honored to step into this role and lead the Athletics and Recreation Department at UW-Stout,” Sullivan said. “I want to thank Chancellor Katherine Frank, Search Chair and Dean of Students Sandi Scott, and the entire hiring committee for their trust and support. I’m also deeply grateful to Duey Naatz for his mentorship and guidance throughout my journey to this point – his support has been instrumental in helping me grow both personally and professionally. UW-Stout is a special place to me, and I firmly believe in our polytechnic values. I look forward to building on our strong foundation, advancing a defined championship culture, and continuing to enhance the student-athlete experience every step of the way.”
Naatz, who will officially retire in September, lauded Sullivan as “the best deputy athletic director and teammate in the country.”
“I believe there are still lots of opportunities to continue to grow the Blue Devil family under Erin’s leadership, and I plan to help in whatever way I can through the transition this summer and into the future,” he said.
Sullivan, a native of Cadott, first came to UW-Stout as assistant women’s basketball coach for four seasons, from 2003-07. During that period, the Blue Devils won three WIAC titles and advanced three times to the NCAA Division III playoffs. After a brief departure from campus, Sullivan returned to become assistant athletic director for six years (2008-14) and then served eight years (2014-22) as associate athletic director. She has also served as senior woman administrator since 2014.
In her current role as deputy athletic director, Sullivan’s responsibilities include internal operations within the athletic department including budget management, event management, facilities, camps and clinics, and athletics communication.
As she takes the helm as the 10th athletic director in UW-Stout history, Sullivan says she is excited for future Blue Devil athletic successes.
“I’m excited to continue working alongside our student-athletes, coaches and staff,” she added. “With a strong foundation in place, it’s time to believe in our collective potential and pursue excellence on and off the field.”
