![\"Jos\u00e9](\"http:\/\/in.nau.edu\/news\/wordpresst\/uploads\/sites\/153\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/President_signature_blue.jpg\")
<\/p>\nJune 30, 2025<\/p>\n
Dear Lumberjacks,<\/p>\n
I am pleased to announce that Uri Farkas has been appointed Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics at Northern Arizona University, effective July 1.<\/p>\n
Since stepping into the interim role in March, Uri has led with integrity, energy, and vision\u2014qualities that have inspired excellence across Lumberjack Athletics. Under his leadership, our teams secured nine conference championships and captured both the Men\u2019s and Women\u2019s Big Sky All-Sports Trophies. Just as impressively, our student-athletes achieved a record-high department GPA of 3.45, a reflection of NAU\u2019s strong culture of academic excellence.<\/p>\n
Uri has demonstrated decisive leadership in key moments, including the successful recruitment of NAU alumna Laura Dinkins as head coach of women\u2019s basketball\u2014an appointment that reflects both strategic foresight and a deep appreciation for our university\u2019s athletic legacy.<\/p>\n
This year also marked the most successful fundraising year in NAU Athletics history, surpassing $4 million in philanthropic support. With six consecutive years of $1 million-plus in annual giving and landmark partnerships\u2014including the 10-year Findlay Toyota naming rights agreement for the Walkup Skydome field and court, a broad partnership with Desert Financial Credit Union, and a multi-year collaboration with Northern Arizona Healthcare to support the Michael E. Nesbitt Sports Medicine Center\u2014Uri has played a vital role in positioning Lumberjack Athletics for long-term success.<\/p>\n
With deep institutional knowledge, strong relationships, and a bold vision at a time of rapid change in collegiate athletics, Uri is uniquely equipped to lead NAU Athletics into its next era. After thoughtful consideration and consultation, I am confident that his leadership will continue to advance the success and impact of our programs and student-athletes.<\/p>\n
A native of Eugene, Oregon, Uri brings experience from leadership roles at Washington State, Cal, and the University of Oregon. Since joining NAU in 2018 as Senior Associate Athletic Director, he has been a strategic driver of competitiveness and operational excellence throughout the department.<\/p>\n
Uri holds a master\u2019s degree in athletic administration from The Ohio State University and a bachelor\u2019s degree in journalism from the University of Montana. He and his wife, Megan, have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of Reese, Tate, and Bodie.<\/p>\n
Please join me in congratulating Uri on this well-earned appointment and in celebrating the continued momentum and bright future of NAU Athletics.<\/p>\n
Go Jacks!<\/p>\n
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