TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The athletic department at Indiana State University has new leadership.
ISU has announced that Nathan Christensen has been selected by new University President Mike Godard as the Director of Athletics. Christensen most recently worked as the Senior Associate Athletic Director of Development at South Dakota State University. He had been in the role since 2021.
“I am honored and humbled to serve as the next Director of Athletics at Indiana State University,” Christensen said. “I am grateful to President Godard and the search committee for entrusting me with this opportunity to lead Sycamore Athletics. I look forward to working in alignment with university leadership, campus partners, and my colleagues as we strive for excellence across the board to create an incredible experience for our student-athletes! My family and I are thrilled to build meaningful relationships with our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and the entire community to elevate Indiana State University and Sycamore Athletics. We are looking forward to relocating to Terre Haute and deepening our connections in Vigo County and beyond.”
Christensen, along with his wife Kalli and their two children Eleanor and Kelby will soon relocate to Terre Haute ahead of his official start date of July 1.
A graduate of Minnesota State University Mankato, Christensen’s has at least 16 years of experience working in higher education athletics programs at Minnesota State University (Mankato) and University of Northern Iowa in addition to his time at SDSU.
When discussing the selection, President Godard said filling this role was one of his top priorities.
“I knew when accepting the presidency that naming an athletic director would be a priority. In addition to Nathan’s extensive professional experience in intercollegiate athletics, I was impressed by his values and mission-based approach to support our student-athletes,” President Godard said.
Godard added that Christensen’s focus on community engagement makes him a good fit for ISU’s mission.
University officials said Christensen will be officially introduced during a public event at a later date with details to be announced soon.
Following former Director of Athletics Sherard Clinkscales stepping down at the end of 2023, Angie Lansing had been filling the role of interim director of athletics.
President Godard also expressed his appreciation to Angie Lansing, interim director of athletics. “Angie is a tried-and-true Sycamore, and I appreciate her willingness to step in and act as Interim Director of Athletics for a second time. Her commitment to our student-athletes and dedication to Indiana State make her an invaluable asset during this transition.”
