La Verne athletic director steps down

University of La Verne Athletic Director Chris Ragsdale has announced that he has accepted a new position as the Commissioner of the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference and will resign his position at ULV effective June 30.

The Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) is a league comprised of nine Division III member institutions representing the states of Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.

“It has been a privilege to serve as the director of athletics the last five years at the University of La Verne,” said Ragsdale. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with President Morgan, senior management, coaches and student-athletes on a daily basis to promote the athletic program and stress its value to the overall strength of the institution.”

Ragsdale, who came to ULV in July 2003, said he will continue his athletic director duties through the end of the current spring sports season.  

"Chris Ragsdale brought his extensive experience and his commitment to Division III values to the University of La Verne at an important time,” said ULV President Stephen Morgan.  “We are grateful for his many contributions to our athletic programs.  We wish Chris and his wife Cindy well as they return to their Midwest roots."

He was instrumental in the renovation of the Sports Science & Athletics Pavilion. The Pavilion, formerly known as the Super Tents, also included the restructuring of Frantz Athletic Court, home to ULV’s volleyball and basketball teams. He also has helped develop plans for the new West Campus Athletic Complex.

He also hired eight new head coaches during his time at La Verne, including Rich Reed in men's basketball, Julie Smith in softball and Andy Ankeny in football. La Verne has captured 12 SCIAC team championships during Ragsdale’s tenure. Additionally over 30 Leopard student-athletes have earned All-America status while 13 student-athletes have been named SCIAC Player of the Year. In addition, he has helped establish annual department events such as the Scholar-Athlete Luncheon and the Leopard Senior Blanket Award Dinner.