Florida Atlantic University recently welcomed Josh McCowan as its new Vice President and Director of Athletics. He emphasized a collaborative approach to leading the department, focusing on comprehensive student-athlete development, community engagement, and the pursuit of championships. McCowan's impressive background in collegiate fundraising and leadership has been widely praised by his former colleagues, marking a new era for FAU athletics.
Florida Atlantic University Welcomes New Athletic Director Josh McCowan
On a significant Friday, August 7, 2026, at the esteemed Owls Nest within the Schmidt Family Complex for Academic and Athletic Excellence, Florida Atlantic University officially introduced Josh McCowan as its new Vice President and Director of Athletics. This pivotal appointment comes merely one week after his selection to succeed Brian White, who transitioned to the athletic director position at Virginia Tech last month. The introductory press conference featured illuminating remarks from FAU President Adam Hasner and Piero Bussani, Chair of the Board of Trustees, both integral members of the national search committee that meticulously selected McCowan.
President Hasner lauded McCowan's extensive experience, profound values, and forward-thinking vision, asserting that his dynamic energy perfectly aligns with the upward trajectory of Florida Atlantic University. Hasner confidently declared, "Josh is the right leader at the right time," underscoring the university's optimism for its athletic future under his guidance. McCowan, accompanied by his wife Ashley, son Kacen, and daughter Kinsley, articulated three core principles that will define his leadership: nurturing the holistic development of student-athletes, galvanizing the local community to rally behind their "hometown team," and relentlessly striving for championship victories.
McCowan, who previously served as the Deputy Athletic Director at Mississippi State since 2023, humbly acknowledged the collaborative nature of his new role. He pledged to lead the department with unwavering integrity, diligence, transparency, and respect, inviting every member of the "Owl family" to partake in this shared journey of educating future leaders, uniting the community, and building a legacy of pride. His former colleagues, including Mississippi State Director of Athletics Zac Selmon and Kansas State Director of Athletics Gene Taylor, offered glowing endorsements, commending McCowan's exceptional character, work ethic, relationship-building skills, and remarkable fundraising acumen. They highlighted his significant contributions at Mississippi State, where he spearheaded a dramatic increase in major gift commitments and modernized NIL revenue strategies, and at Kansas State, where he achieved record-breaking fundraising totals. Recognized as one of Silver Waves Media's Top 100 Future Athletics Directors in 2026, McCowan brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record to Boca Raton, signaling a promising chapter for FAU athletics.
The appointment of Josh McCowan marks a strategic move for Florida Atlantic University, emphasizing the growing importance of strong leadership and innovative fundraising in collegiate athletics. His vision for holistic student-athlete development and community engagement resonates deeply in an era where athletic programs are increasingly viewed as integral to university identity and outreach. McCowan's proven ability to generate substantial revenue through philanthropic efforts suggests a commitment to enhancing resources and opportunities for FAU's athletic programs, potentially elevating their competitive standing and institutional prestige. This leadership transition underscores the evolving landscape of college sports, where a blend of administrative prowess, financial acumen, and a clear vision for success is paramount.
