The Role of an Athletic Director: Hiring, Recruitment, and NIL w/ Donna Woodruff

Athletic directors balance it all: budgets, athletes, and the future of their institution. In this episode, Donna Woodruff offers insight into her role as Assistant Vice President and Athletic Director at Loyola University. She highlights the challenges and rewards of running an athletic department, from hiring coaches to recruitment and scholarships.We discuss college coaching contracts, how the NIL and AAU are shaping college athletics, the rise of women's sport, and more. Whether you're an athlete, coach or aspiring administrator, our conversation will help you navigate your journey in sports!Topics discussed in this episode:Donna's path from athlete to administratorKey skills and responsibilities of an athletic directorFinding the right fit during recruitmentHow the NIL has impacted college athleticsThe role of AAU and recruitment challengesScholarships and the recruitment processHiring and contracts: sustaining a career as a college coachThe growth and visibility of women's sports