Cochran named NSU Interim Athletic Director

TAHLEQUAH - Matt Cochran, a Northeastern State University graduate who has served as the university's Senior Associate Athletic Director, will become NSU interim Athletic Director. Earlier this week, Athletic Director Jeff Konya accepted a similar position at California State University-Bakersfield.

In appointing Cochran to fill the duties of the temporary position, NSU President Dr. Don Betz cited Cochran's service to NSU Athletics and his long-term commitment to the institution.

I am pleased to name Matt Cochran as NSU's interim Athletic Director upon the departure of Jeff Konya," Betz said. "Matt is a seasoned professional who has earned the respect and trust of coaches and staff alike. He is highly knowledgeable in NCAA regulations and issues, and has represented NSU at its meetings for years. His devotion to NSU, to our student-athletes and their success is clear to all who know Matt. I am confident he will provide valued leadership during the search process.

Cochrans association at NSU began in 1972, when his father, Bill Cochran, was named to lead the universitys safety and driver education program. The elder Cochran later served as baseball coach from 1979 to 1984.

During that time, Matt pursued degree requirements to earn a bachelor of science in Accounting in 1986 and a master of Business Administration in 1991. He was named scholarship coordinator and financial aid counselor in the Office of Student Financial Services and later transferred to the Department of Athletics, where he began as compliance coordinator and served as chair of the Lone Star Conference Compliance Coordinators from 1998 to 2000 and 2002 to 2003. He became Assistant Athletic Director in 1998.

"There is a solid foundation in place for Northeastern State Athletics to continue to thrive during this interim process," said Cochran. "Our student-athletes, coaches and staff are committed to excellence. I am honored Dr. Betz has confidence in allowing me to lead the Athletic Department at this time."

In his current position, Cochran is responsible for the NCAA compliance program that supervises and monitors recruiting activities for a coaching staff of 10 varsity sports. He also oversees the operating and scholarship budgets for those sports, and monitors the eligibility and progress toward degrees of more than 250 student athletes annually.

He is married to Dr. Teri Cochran, director of NSU Student Financial Services.

President Betz will convene a committee to oversee a national search for a new Athletic Director.

Visit the Athletics website for more information.