Southern Utah University announced on May 15 that Myndee Kay Larsen will serve as its next Athletic Director, following a national search. Larsen is set to begin her role at the university in July.
The appointment comes at a time of growth and transition for SUU Athletics. The university highlighted Larsen’s extensive experience in intercollegiate athletics and her strong connection to Southern Utah University.
“Myndee Kay brings a clear vision for the future of Thunderbirds Athletics and a strong commitment to the long-term success of Southern Utah University,” said SUU President Mindy Benson. “She understands the importance of building lasting relationships, supporting students across all aspects of their SUU experience, and guiding SUU Athletics with integrity and stability during this important period of growth and transition.”
Larsen has nearly two decades of experience in college athletics, including 17 years with The Summit League where she currently serves as Deputy Commissioner. She also served as Interim Commissioner from October 2021 to March 2022. In these roles, she supervised men’s and women’s basketball programs, managed governance structures for all sports, directed conference championships, and oversaw one of the highest revenue-generating mid-major basketball tournaments with record-breaking attendance on the women’s side.
“I’m honored to join Southern Utah University at such an exciting time for Thunderbirds Athletics, and I look forward to bringing the experience and perspective I’ve gained nationally to elevate SUU Athletics both competitively and academically,” Larsen said.
Her background includes service on NCAA committees such as the Men’s Basketball Rules Committee through 2027—where she is noted as its first woman member—and participation in various national committees focused on championships, legislation, and sport operations. She has also worked closely with other conferences like Big Sky Conference leadership on joint initiatives.
Stuart Jones, Vice President of University Relations & Strategic Enrollment and chair of the search committee said: “We are fortunate to have found such a highly qualified candidate with extensive experience in intercollegiate athletics and a deep personal connection to Southern Utah University. Myndee Kay has an ambitious vision for Thunderbirds Athletics, and I am confident she will lead with integrity and position SUU Athletics for sustained success in a rapidly evolving collegiate landscape.”
Larsen graduated summa cum laude from SUU in communication in 1998. Her previous roles at SUU include serving on its Board of Trustees, president of its National Alumni Council, assistant women’s basketball coach (1998-2001), instructor in communication courses, interim athletic director (2005-06), as well as being recognized as the first women’s basketball player at SUU whose jersey was retired.
A press conference welcoming Larsen will be held later this summer; details will be announced by Southern Utah University at a later date.
