MARION — Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) has named Jon Young, Ph.D., as its new director of athletics. Young brings more than a decade of athletic leadership experience and will begin his role in June 2026.
“Jon is a proven leader who understands the important role athletics plays in shaping the student experience,” said Brian Jaworski, Ph.D., vice president of student development and athletics. “His ability to lead with vision, develop strong teams, and align athletics with institutional mission makes him an excellent choice to lead Wildcat Athletics into the future.”
Young most recently served as athletic director at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy, where he provided executive leadership for 26 interscholastic athletic programs and supervised a staff of more than 120 coaches. His responsibilities included directing comprehensive strategic planning, budgeting, and long-range development initiatives, as well as leading fundraising, donor relations, and sponsorship development to support sustained growth.
During his tenure, Young strengthened community partnerships and enhanced public relations strategies to increase attendance, school visibility, and stakeholder engagement. He also collaborated with executive leadership to align athletics with institutional mission and student development priorities.
“We are pleased to welcome Jon to IWU,” said Jon Kulaga, Ph.D., president of IWU. “Jon brings a strong record of leadership, a deep commitment to developing student-athletes, and a clear alignment with our Christ-centered mission. We are confident he will build on the momentum of Wildcat Athletics while continuing to shape a culture of excellence, integrity, and spiritual formation.”
“I am truly honored and humbled to join Indiana Wesleyan University as the new director of athletics,” Young said. “IWU has a rich tradition of excellence both on and off the field, and I am eager to build on that legacy through intentional leadership and faithful stewardship of our athletic programs. My deepest desire is to see our coaches and student-athletes grow not only in competitive success but also in their integration of faith and character in all they pursue. I am excited to partner with this remarkable community as we pursue Christ-centered excellence together.”
In his new role at IWU, Young will provide leadership for the university’s intercollegiate athletics programs, overseeing coaches, staff, and student-athletes while advancing a culture of competitive excellence and Christ-centered formation. He will be responsible for strategic planning, program development, and fostering an environment that supports both athletic success and holistic student growth.
Young earned a Ph.D. in organizational leadership from Columbia International University in 2021. He received a master’s degree in educational administration from Emporia State University in 2009 and a bachelor’s degree in education and Bible from Baptist Bible College in 2002.
