A familiar face at Rockhurst University has joined Rockhurst Athletics.

Brent Blazek, '17 MBA, has been named associate athletic director for development and engagement, a new position dedicated exclusively to fundraising and engagement for athletics programs. His new role comes after nine years as part of the University's advancement office in alumni relations, most recently as director of alumni relations. During his time with that office, Blazek helped lead alumni relations and fundraising efforts, particularly in the area of athletics. In 2018, Blazek spearheaded the revival of the University's athletic booster group, the R Club, which has since raised over $400,000 in support of athletic programs and facilities.

Blazek said he is excited for the opportunity to build on previous work for the benefit of Rockhurst's student-athletes and athletic programs.

"I've learned so much working with Mary Mooney Burns (vice president for advancement) and her team for nine years, and Kristy Bayer (director of athletics) has been great to work with over the past nine months," he said. "I am so grateful that they believed in me enough to make this happen. I am most looking forward to getting to work with the coaches and student-athletes more on a regular basis. They are the reason that our donors support RU athletics."

Bayer said Blazek's new position is key as athletics seeks to strengthen existing relationships with donors and alumni and welcome others back to the fold. He brings a familiar face with existing relationships, she said, but as importantly, Blazek truly understands what makes Rockhurst University and its athletics programs special.

"Brent has been a high performing and well-liked employee on the campus of Rockhurst with over a decade of experience," Bayer said. "Brent truly loves Rockhurst, the Jesuit mission, and wants to see athletics elevated as a top NCAA DII program."

Caroline Campbell, a former member of the Office of Admission staff and most recently the fundraising events and volunteer coordinator at KCUR FM in Kansas City, will assume the role of director of alumni relations.