Minot State introduces Kevin Forde as new Director of Athletics
MINOT, N.D. – Kevin Forde will serve as the next Director of Athletics at Minot State University beginning July 18, 2022, MSU president Dr. Steven Shirley announced Wednesday.
Forde has an extensive history at the NCAA Division II level and within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Forde spent 10 years in athletic administrative roles at the University of Mary, and earlier in his career was men’s basketball assistant coach at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Kevin earned his bachelor's and master’s degrees from Southwest Minnesota State University where he served as a graduate assistant and student assistant coach. All three universities are members of the NSIC.
He also spent two years as Athletic Director at Wheeling University (W.V.), an NCAA Division II member of the Mountain East Conference, and has been interim Director of Athletics or Associate Athletic Director at NCAA Division II East Stroudsburg University (Pa.), Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Regis University (Colo.), and NAIA St. Xavier University (Ill.). In total, Forde has 13 years of administrative experience in intercollegiate athletics.
He replaces former AD Andy Carter, who left Minot State University in April. MSU Vice President of Student Affairs Kevin Harmon has been serving as interim AD. Forde is the 13th Director of Athletics in school history and just the sixth AD since 1966.
“We are excited to welcome Kevin into the MSU community, and look forward to his leadership with our coaches, staff, and student-athletes in Beaver Athletics,” Shirley said. “Kevin has a depth and breadth of experience in intercollegiate athletics, NCAA Division II, and specifically within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. It is with great enthusiasm we welcome him to the MSU community and look forward to Kevin building upon his vision for MSU’s athletic programs.
“A special word of thanks to interim AD Kevin Harmon, who also chaired our search committee, and to all committee members for their work in bringing four outstanding finalists to MSU during this search.”
Forde will officially begin his duties on the Minot State campus on July 18. Availability with the media will also be made on that day.
“It is an incredible honor to join Minot State University and be named the 13th director of athletics,” said Forde. “I want to thank President Shirley for believing in my vision for Beaver Athletics. I look forward to working with him and his leadership team. I am especially grateful to Kevin Harmon and the search committee for the time they spent on this search and the opportunity for me to be a part of Minot State University. I look forward to supporting our coaches and staff and engaging the larger community as we continue the winning tradition that has defined Minot State Athletics in the classroom and on the field. We strive to provide a championship experience for our student-athletes while being good partners in the community and on campus. The future is bright for Minot State University Athletics.”
Forde, a North Dakota native, and his wife, Laura, have been married for 20 years and have two daughters, Isabelle and Addison.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 07/06/22 |
