FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (April 27, 2026) – Following an extensive program assessment, led by The PICTOR Group, Northern Arizona University President José Luis Cruz Rivera announced the launch of a national search for the University's next Vice President/Director of Athletics.
"I look forward to filling this important role in partnership with The PICTOR Group," said Cruz Rivera. "Lumberjack Athletics has a proud tradition — championship programs, dedicated coaches and staff, and student-athletes who compete and achieve at the highest level — and the impressive results this spring demonstrate the incredible foundation we have built at 7,000 feet. Looking ahead, we will build on this by finding a visionary, entrepreneurial leader who will champion academic and competitive excellence, guide NAU through the changing landscape of intercollegiate athletics, and author the next chapter in Lumberjack history."
Earlier this spring, The PICTOR Group was brought in to stabilize operations, assess the department honestly, and position Northern Arizona University to recruit the best athletic director for NAU's future.
Tanya Vogel, vice president at The PICTOR Group, has overseen the athletic department in an interim leadership position since March 2 during the assessment period.
"NAU has a heartbeat that's hard to describe until you've experienced it — the passion of the people, the beauty of the place and a relentless pursuit of excellence make this an extraordinary opportunity," Vogel said. "The PICTOR Group is honored to assist with this search and find a resilient, innovative leader ready to inspire an exceptional community of elite coaches, students and staff during one of the most dynamic moments in college athletics."
The new athletic director will take over an athletic department that has captured nine conference championships this academic year. The Lumberjacks will have two more opportunities to add to that total with the men's and women's track & field programs approaching the Big Sky Outdoor Championships in May.
The search will be conducted with the goal of selecting and onboarding the next Vice President/Director of Athletics over the summer, ensuring a smooth transition ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 academic year.
The PICTOR Group is managing the search process. Interested applicants can reach out to CEO/Founder Cary Growth at
cgroth@thepictorgroup.com.
