Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Education news and issues in the Ozarks.

SPS Athletic Director Hired to Same Position at Drury

Drury University

Springfield Public Schools Athletic Director Mark Fisher has been selected to the same position at Drury University.

The school made the announcement today. Fisher, who has been with SPS since 2003, will begin his duties at Drury on July 1, 2015.

In a statement, Drury President Dr. David Manuel credited Fisher’s leadership and management qualities and breadth of experience dealing with a wide array of sports and administrations.

“Mark has deep local and statewide connections at both the collegiate and high school levels, and a proven track record in fundraising and managing high-profile events,” Manuel said.

Fisher’s 12-year career with SPS includes success both on and off the field. In addition to overseeing all athletic activities for Missouri’s largest public school district, he also spearheaded a $3.5 million campaign for stadium improvements and implemented systems to continually evaluate the progress of student athletes and coaches.

“I want to thank Dr. Manuel and the Board of Trustees for the opportunity to serve at Drury University, where academics and athletics stand for excellence,” Fisher said. “Drury has a great group of coaches and I’m excited to be able to assist them in continuing the outstanding tradition of DU athletics, and helping student athletes fulfill their goals through their academic and athletic experiences.”

Fisher is the director of the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions. The former Missouri Basketball Coach of the Year has mentored 18 former players or assistant coaches to careers as head basketball coaches.

Beginning Jan. 5, 2015, former DU athletic director Edsel Matthews will return to campus to serve as interim AD until Fisher’s full-time arrival in July. Scott Puryear, associate athletic director for marketing and communications, has served as the interim AD for the past five months.