TOLEDO, Ohio – University of Toledo Deputy Athletic Director Al Tomlinson was one of 21 administrators across all three divisions selected to participate in the NCAA's Pathway Program, a yearlong initiative designed to prepare senior-level athletics administrators for their next career step as directors of athletics or conference commissioners.
The Pathway Program, under the direction of NCAA leadership development, is an intensive, experiential learning opportunity for selected participants who work at an NCAA school or conference in Divisions I, II or III. During the year, Tomlinson will be paired with and have regularly scheduled meetings with a campus or conference mentor. The mentors include directors of athletics, conference commissioners and school presidents, along with others in leadership roles.
"I'm incredibly excited for Al to receive this tremendous opportunity," said Bryan B. Blair, Vice President & Director of Athletics. "The NCAA Pathway Program is one of the best professional development opportunities in all of college athletics. Many institutions nominate senior leaders for this opportunity but very few are chosen. It is a testament to Al and our entire department to have a staff member in this year's cohort. I am a proud graduate of the program and look forward to Al undergoing this transformational experience."
Tomlinson oversees all external operations for the Rockets, including development, premium seating, ticket sales & service, digital/social media, communications, merchandising, and marketing, sales & fan experience. Additionally, he is the department's liaison with Learfield and the Aspire Group, while serving as the sport administrator for men's basketball, baseball and women's volleyball.
The program is structured to help cement each participant's leadership purpose and enhance their skills in areas that focus on strategic planning; fundraising; message articulation; diversity, equity and inclusion; organizational leadership; hiring processes; and engagement with search firms.
"The past two cohorts saw six learners ascend into the director of athletics or conference commissioner role, as well as seven additional learners promoted into elevated positions that bring them one step closer to leading an athletic department or athletic conference," said DeeDee Merritt, director of leadership development at the NCAA. "The Pathway Program continues to illustrate why it is a signature developmental opportunity for senior-level administrators in the membership and the future executive leaders in college athletics. We are excited to embark on another year of transformative change with the 2024-25 cohort."
The Pathway Program was created in 1997 and has produced more than 300 program alumni, with nearly 30% of the graduates moving on to become athletics directors or conference commissioners.
