Tuesday morning, Metropolitan State University of Denver named Dr. Anthony Grant its new Director of Athletics. Grant is set to begin his duties August 17.

Grant replaces longtime AD Joan McDermott, who accepted an offer at California State University, East Bay last December for the same position.

In March, Grant was the last of four candidates to be interviewed. Stephen Jordan, President of MSU-Denver, said in a press release that Grant brings a good blend of expertise to the university’s athletics program.

“Grant brings the right mix of devotion to the student-athlete, a fundraising background, and great energy and enthusiasm. He is someone we believe will help elevate the front porch of the University – our Athletics program – to an even greater level.”

Grant, a Temple University graduate, has 10 years of experience with Millersville Univeristy (Pa.) a Division II school where he oversaw 19 teams and 350 student-athletes, first as associate director of athletics and later promoted to interim AD. At Millersville he also helped raise $250,000 and directed a multimillion-dollar budget.

Since Metro hasn’t had enough funding for some of their club sports such as football and hockey, students on campus hope that Grant can help provide such financing to grow to a varsity level.

As the new AD, Grant will manage the university’s 16-sport intercollegiate athletic programs as well its 12 club sports and support functions. Additionally, Grant will serve as the primary spokesperson for the athletics program.

Grant said this in the university’s press release:

“MSU Denver is an outstanding institution with a premier Division II athletic program. I would like to thank Dr. Jordan and the search committee for a tremendous opportunity to lead hard-working and talented staff, coaches, and student-athletes. I also look forward to working with our internal and external constituents to build upon the Roadrunners’ tradition of excellence by cultivating an environment that emphasizes student-athlete growth and development, national championship caliber competition and civic engagement.”

Mike Tolbert, a Mile High Sports intern and MSU-Denver student, contributed to this report