St. Francis tabs James Downer as AD

James Downer is set to take charge at St. Francis (Pa.) as the school’s new athletic director.

He replaces Erika Renwick, who had been serving as interim AD.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to join a university with a legacy of success and a profound commitment to intercollegiate athletics,” Downer said.

Downer spent the last three years as senior athletic director at Eastern Kentucky, where he served as sport administrator for football and men’s basketball, managing scheduling and coaching hires in both, and oversaw compliance, media relations, ticket operations and other key areas.

Downer was a key player in securing athletic department contracts with adidas, Learfield/IMG College and helped to launch the school’s mobile app.

He also worked at Central Oklahoma, Nicholls State and Presbyterian.

“James’ leadership approach is a natural fit to enhance the athletic and academic success we expect,” said St. Francis President Fr. Malachi Van Tassell. “Not only will he bring a strong focus on student-athlete well-being, but he will further the reputation of competitive success for which we are known.”

Downer, a Springfield, Ill. native, graduated from Millsaps College in 2002 and later received a master’s degree from Oklahoma.