Feb. 20, 2008

OXFORD, OHIO - Miami University President David Hodge announced today that athletic director Brad Bates has signed a five-year contract lasting through June 30, 2013.

"During his tenure at Miami, Brad has exemplified the core values that reflect Miami's aspirations for intercollegiate athletics: student academic success, student athlete success, and the recruitment, development and retention of excellent coaches and staff," said Hodge. "I am excited that Brad will be able to continue the momentum he has begun in our intercollegiate athletics organization."

Bates arrived at Miami in December of 2002 and since that time, through the committed efforts of staff and students, the graduation rate for student athletes has risen to being one of the highest in the nation at 85 percent, higher than Miami's overall rate of 81 percent. In 2004, Miami's student-athletes were recognized for having the second highest NCAA Academic Performance Rating in the nation.

During the past five years, the hockey program has achieved a number 1 national ranking for NCAA teams, a first for Miami athletics, while winning a second CCHA championship and first NCAA tournament victory; football earned back-to-back bowl games and has won four East Division championships; men's basketball has won two championships; synchronized skating became the first United States team to earn a medal in the world championships; and eleven Miami teams have captured conference championships.

Through the generosity of alumni in the past five years, Miami has unveiled improvements to its athletic facilities including new grandstands, a state-of-the-art video board, sound system and scoreboard, permanent lighting at Yager Stadium, the opening of the new Goggin Ice Arena, a new softball park and a renovated field hockey complex.

Bates and his staff recently unveiled a strategic plan for intercollegiate athletics, the Culture of Champions, a concept anchored in excellence and focused on maximizing student development.

"Miami athletes project Miami out into the world every time we walk onto the playing field," Bates said. "Our athletes have a commitment to excellence as student-athletes, as team members, as representatives of Miami. When we succeed, we heighten the Miami experience for everyone."

"Michele and I are tremendously honored by the opportunity President Hodge has provided to continue serving this extraordinary university," Bates added, "I am especially committed to our students and staff, faculty and administration, fans and alums in realizing our lofty vision for Miami University athletics of becoming a Culture of Champions in all endeavors."