Florida A&M University announced Wednesday the hiring of NFL Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow Sr. as the university’s next athletic director. Winslow believes he has the qualifications to revive FAMU’s athletic department.
FAMU President Elmira Mangum was among university officials announcing Winslow's appointment.
At the news conference officials briefly introduced and welcomed Winslow, who served in athletic leadership roles at Lakeland College in Wisconsin and Central State University in Ohio. He was also the Director of Planning and New Business Development at Disney’s Wide World of Sports. Winslow said his past experiences have prepared him for the challenges he faces at FAMU.
“My experience at Disney is relative to what has taken place here,” Winslow says. “My experience in broadcasting is relative to what we’re doing right now. My experience in so many other things is relative to what’s taking place today at FAMU, and I think I’m well-prepared for this situation.”
Winslow said among his top priorities is making student athletes academic models for all students at FAMU. He wants coaches to be responsible for their athletes' academic success.
Another major challenge Winslow will face is solving the athletic department’s recurring budget deficit. Seeking funding from FAMU graduates could be a way of addressing this issue. Winslow says he’ll draw from his prior experience to attract athletic boosters.
“My job is to go out and tell the great story of FAMU as a university, specifically FAMU athletics, and how it changes young people's lives,” Winslow says.
Winslow says another priority is improving the school’s football stadium. He said any major division football school should have an impressive stadium. It's been more than 30 years since FAMU’s Bragg Stadium was renovated.
