Wichita State University has hired Kevin Weiberg as executive-in-residence (EIR) in the Department of Sport Management. Weiberg is the former commissioner of the Big 12 Conference and most recently served as deputy commissioner for the Pac-12 Conference before retiring last summer.

Weiberg is the department’s first EIR. In the role, he will serve as a guest lecturer in multiple sport management courses, consult with the department regarding industry trends and curricula planning, and participate in events related to the department’s student and alumni associations.

He will also serve as a fellow in WSU’s Partnership for the Advancement of Sport Management, an entity dedicated to increasing opportunities for interaction among community members, sport practitioners, students and faculty.

“We are excited about the possibilities this appointment will create for our students and faculty,” says Tony Vizzini, WSU provost and senior vice president. “Kevin has a wealth of valuable experiences that will enhance the student experience here at WSU.”

Weiberg served with the Pac-12 from 2010 to 2014. As deputy commissioner and chief operating officer, he was involved in the conference’s expansion from 10 to 12 members, its rebranding initiative and the launch of the Pac-12 Networks, a media company owned by the conference’s member universities.

Prior to his work with Pac-12, Weiberg served as commissioner of the Big 12 Conference (1998-2007) and vice president for the Big Ten Conference (1989-1998, 2007-09) where he led the development of the Big Ten Network. He also served as assistant athletics director at WSU from 1980 to 1987.

In addition to his work as EIR for WSU Sport Management, Weiberg continues to work in the industry as a consultant to a number of organizations.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to work with the students and faculty in the sport management program at Wichita State,” Weiberg said. “It will be fun to share some insights from my professional experiences and to contribute to the training and development of the next generation of sport administrators and leaders.”

An even better student experience

The Department of Sport Management offers academic programs at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. WSU is one of just 19 institutions to hold specialized accreditation from the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation.

The department is housed in the College of Education. Dean Shirley Lefever-Davis said Weiberg's appointment further enhances WSU’s reputation as a leading institution for sport management education.

“Our sport management programs have long been recognized for their excellence,” Lefever-Davis said. “Having Kevin Weiberg join our team will enable us to provide an even better experience for our students. And it should also assist us in attaining a number of our other strategic priorities, such as expanding our partnerships and positively impacting our community.”

Mark Vermillion, department chair in Sport Management, said he expects numerous department constituents to benefit from Weiberg’s experience and expertise.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for students, faculty and staff to learn from someone who has been a part of so many monumental changes within intercollegiate athletics,” Vermillion said.