FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (June 23, 2026) – Launching an exciting new chapter of Lumberjack Athletics, Northern Arizona University President José Luis Cruz Rivera announced
Dr. Richard Duran as Vice President and Director of Athletics on Tuesday.
Duran will officially assume his role on July 16, 2026, pending approval from the Arizona Board of Regents. Duran will be formally introduced during a press conference set for Monday, June 29, 2026 at 11 a.m. MST in NAU's Student-Athlete High Performance Center. Information regarding streaming of the press conference will be announced at a later date.
"Richard Duran is a proven winner and innovative leader in the world of Division I athletics," Cruz Rivera said. "His ability to build new revenue streams from the ground up and navigate the modern college sports environment will unlock the full potential of our sport programs, and his commitment to our student-athletes through excellence in competition, in the classroom, and throughout the community is central to who we are as Lumberjacks. He distinguished himself in an exceptional field of candidates, and I'm confident in how he'll build on our history and lead this department to new heights."
Duran, a native of Montebello, Calif., arrives at Northern Arizona University following nine years at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). Duran, who was recently elevated to Associate Vice President of Athletics, served as UIW's Athletic Director since June 2020, when he became the youngest sitting Division I athletic director at that time. Prior to his appointment, Duran served as the interim athletic director during the 2019-20 season. He initially came to UIW in 2017 as deputy athletic director responsible for all external functions.
"I'd like to thank President Cruz Rivera, Brian Register, Bjorn Flugstad, the PICTOR Group and the search committee for this incredible opportunity," Duran said. "Throughout the process, the university-wide commitment to athletics and dedication to elevating the NAU brand were evident. I felt the energy and passion from everyone I met during my visit. NAU was established to provide life-changing opportunities, enrich lives and make Arizona and the world a better place. I will carry that mission forward in my leadership of Lumberjack Athletics and build on the strong foundation of success this department has experienced."
Under his leadership, UIW Athletics saw unprecedented success. UIW celebrated one team national championship and 20 team conference championships, including a department-record six during the 2021-22 academic year. UIW also earned the department's highest finish and point total in the Learfield Directors' Cup standings in 2024-25.
Additionally, UIW received the Southland Conference Academic Performance Award this most recent season, recognizing its student-athletes' achievements in the classroom. Following UIW's Commissioner's Cup wins for accomplishments on the field of play (2021-22, 2022-23) and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Serves Award for service in the community (2021-22, 2023-24, 2024-25), UIW became the first Southland Conference institution to collect all three league awards for successes in the classroom, community and competition.
The department's honors validated Duran's charge of creating Champions in the Three Cs (Classroom, Community, Competition) amongst 530 student-athletes across 25 programs. UIW student-athletes completed more than 57,000 hours of community service since his arrival in 2017 and compiled at least a 3.2 semester GPA throughout his tenure, including a record-breaking 3.48 semester GPA in Fall 2025. More than 840 student-athletes graduated during his tenure.
The UIW football team became one of the premier programs in the FCS under his leadership, winning four Southland Conference titles and reaching the FCS Playoffs four times. The program produced Cameron Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and enjoyed its most successful season in 2022, recording a school record 12 wins and earning the program's first trip to the FCS Semifinals.
During Duran's tenure, UIW Athletics raised more than $10 million and also set department records for annual fund, corporate partnerships and ticket sales.
While at UIW, Duran served as the Southland Conference's representative on the NCAA FCS Playoff Selection Committee this past season. He also served on the NCAA FCS Regional Advisory Committee and NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Panel. Within the Southland Conference, he wrapped up his tenure as the president of Southland's Advisory Council and athletic director chair.
Prior to his time in San Antonio, Texas, at UIW, Duran had stints at Cal State-LA, Louisiana Monroe, UC Riverside and the Big West Conference. Combined with his time as a football student-athlete at Whittier College, Duran has well-rounded experience across the intercollegiate athletics landscape in Division I (FBS, FCS, non-football), Division II, Division III and a conference office.
Duran will take the helm of the athletic department, following another banner year for the Lumberjacks. During the 2025-26 season, NAU captured 10 conference championships and earned three national top 10 finishes (men's cross country, women's cross country, men's indoor track & field). The Lumberjacks also earned the Big Sky Conference Women's All-Sports Trophy for the second consecutive year.
Duran holds his bachelor's degree in kinesiology with a concentration in sport management from Whittier College, where he was a four-year football letterwinner. He received his master's degree in sport management from University of San Francisco and earned his doctor of education in educational leadership – higher education administration from Gwynedd Mercy University in 2025.
What Are They Saying About Dr. Richard Duran
"Congratulations to Richard Duran on his well-deserved opportunity on becoming Vice President and Director of Athletics at Northern Arizona University. His leadership and the positive impact he's had on those around him at UIW, including myself, have truly stood out, and it has been inspiring to see his contributions make such a difference. Best wishes for continued success in his new role."
Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans, Quarterback, No. 1 Overall Pick, 2025 NFL Draft
University of the Incarnate Word, 2020 Jerry Rice Award Winner
"Congratulations to Richard Duran on being named the new Athletic Director at Northern Arizona University. Richard's leadership, vision and commitment to student-athlete success make him an outstanding choice for this role. We look forward to seeing NAU Athletics continue to grow and thrive under his guidance. Wishing him great success as he begins this exciting new chapter."
Eric Morris, Oklahoma State University, Head Football Coach
University of the Incarnate Word, Head Football Coach (2018-21)
"Throughout his time at UIW, Dr. Duran never lost sight of athletics as part of a larger educational mission. His vision of developing champions in the classroom, the community and in competition shaped a culture that challenged student-athletes to excel while also serving others and representing the university's values with integrity. I deeply appreciated his commitment to collaboration, his belief in the educational value of athletics and his genuine investment in the holistic success and well-being of our student-athletes."
Dr. Laura Cannon, University of the Incarnate Word, Faculty Athletics Representative
"What an exceptional hire. Richard is an extraordinary human being with extensive knowledge about all things concerning college athletics and higher education. Richard is relentless at getting the job done! He is a tireless worker and he will do any and everything in his power to ensure the success of his programs. I was honored to work for Richard and I was completely blown away by him in the process. I am wishing Richard nothing but the absolute best, and on behalf of women's basketball, we sure will miss him here in San Antonio."
Jhasmin Player, University of the Incarnate Word, Head Women's Basketball Coach
"NAU has made a great hire! During Richard's time at UIW, he had to figure out creative ways to help a new DI department compete at the highest levels. It wasn't easy, but he didn't relent. His efforts to be creative and find new and innovative ways to help our department grow have prepared him for his new role at NAU. I have no doubts that he will tap into his unique experiences, innovative ideas and creativity to take the NAU athletics department to a new and exciting level. The Flagstaff community will feel his presence and his passion for representing the NAU community in the best light. Good luck, Richard."
Dr. Derek Riedel, University of the Incarnate Word, Head Cross Country/Track and Field Coach
