University of Charleston

University of Charleston

Dr. Bren Stevens Named One of the Cushman & Wakefield AD of the Year Winners

The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) announced 28 winners of the Cushman & Wakefield AD of the Year Award. Among the winners is Dr. Bren Stevens,  Vice President and Director of Athletics for the University of Charleston.

The Award highlights the efforts of athletics directors at all levels for their commitment and positive contributions to student-athletes, campuses, and their surrounding communities. Criteria for the award include service as an AD for a minimum of five academic years; demonstration of commitment to higher education and student-athletes; continuous teamwork, loyalty, and excellence; and the ability to inspire individuals or groups to high levels of accomplishments.

“The entire UC family congratulates Bren for this prestigious award,” said UC President Marty Roth. “However, we are far from surprised. Every day we see and benefit from Bren’s insight, passion, and commitment to excellence. Under her leadership, students and coaches excel in their sports, studies, and as active contributors in the community. Bren is a driving force for positive change and serves as an outstanding role model for women and diverse leaders in athletics and far beyond.”

Stevens was named UC Athletic Director in January, 2011. A native of Massachusetts, she was recruited to what was then known as Morris Harvey College to play volleyball in 1976. She was recruited to return to her alma mater to coach the school’s volleyball squad in 1992.

She has held multiple roles at UC, progressing from coaching volleyball and swimming to physical education instructor in 1996, assistant professor of sports administration in 2000, and associate athletic director in 2005.  Stevens meanwhile earned a master’s degree in exercise physiology and a doctorate in education administration, putting those skills to work in the classroom and as senior woman administrator in the UC athletic department. She was named a UC Vice President in 2019.

“Having personally observed her dedication and passion for the growth and success of athletes, coaches, staff, and the university coupled with her work ethic and unwavering conviction, I cannot think of a more deserving candidate,” said Jenna Theden, Assistant AD for Recruitment & Retention at UC. “Dr. Stevens always tells us she has the best and hardest working staff in all of D2 Athletics, but I truly believe it is us who have the best and hardest working Athletic Director in all of D2.”