Matt Tanney’s Tenure Extended as Interim Athletic Director

Western Illinois University to keep Matt Tanney in charge of Leatherneck Athletics into 2016

MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois University will keep interim director Matt Tanney in charge of Leatherneck Athletics into 2016. Vice President for Student Services Dr. Gary Biller made the announcement on Friday (June 5).

"Our original plans were to start a search this month for the athletic director position. However, after further evaluation and discussions we've decided to keep Matt in charge into next year," said Biller. "Matt has the experience and knowledge to run our department, that has been evident during his last month in charge. We will re-evaluate the position in 2016 and determine our course of action."

Tanney was promoted from Deputy Athletic Director last month, and will begin his fourth year at Western Illinois.

"It is a privilege to lead a department with coaches, staff and student-athletes of such a high caliber. I appreciate the confidence of (President) Dr. Jack Thomas and Dr. Gary Biller in extending my tenure as interim athletic director. My focus remains singularly committed to excellence in all facets of Leatherneck Athletics," said Tanney. "In my conversations with alumni and community members the past few weeks, it is evident there is excitement about the upcoming season. I share that optimism and look forward to our shared, future successes."

In May 2014, Tanney was named the University's Division of Student Services 'Administrative Employee of the Year'. He has presented nationally at the NCAA Regional Rules conference, in addition to teaching undergraduate courses at Western and serving as a guest lecturer at several colleges. He will also teach a sports law class in the WIU graduate program this fall.

For all the latest information on Leatherneck Athletics, log onto www.GoLeathernecks.com or follow on Twitter at @WIUAthletics

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