Koehler selected for 2023-24 NCAA Pathway Program

The NCAA Pathway Program was created in 1997.

Rockhurst Deputy Director of Athletics Michael Koehler has been selected to be part of the 2023-24 NCAA Pathway Program, a yearlong initiative designed to prepare senior-level athletics administrators for the next career step as directors of athletics or conference commissioners.

The Pathway Program, under the direction of NCAA leadership development, is an intensive, experiential learning opportunity for selected participants who work at an NCAA school or conference in Divisions I, II or III. During the year, the 21 participants will be paired with and have regularly scheduled meetings with a campus or conference mentor. The mentors include directors of athletics, conference commissioners, and school presidents, among others in leadership roles.

"Michael has immersed himself in all administrative areas of DII athletics," said RU Director of Athletics Director Kristy Bayer. "This program will continue to guide his professional path. We are very proud of his selection and participation in this prestigious program."

The Pathway Program is designed to help cement their leadership purpose and enhance their skills in areas that focus on strategic planning; fundraising; message articulation; organizational leadership; hiring processes; and engagement with search firms. The 2023-24 cohort will meet June 25-30 for a week-long education session in Indianapolis and will return in October for more programming and to observe their divisions' respective governance meetings. The program will conclude in the summer of 2024.

Created in 1997, the Pathway Program has produced more than 282 program alumni, with nearly 30 percent of the graduates moving on to become athletics directors or conference commissioners. Additionally, more than 70 percent of the program alumni have received some level of promotion in relation to their title or job responsibilities.

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