Minneapolis, MN -- North Central University Director of Athletics, Recreation, and Wellness, Michael Knipe, has announced his departure from NCU as he moves to Fort Lewis College (NCAA Division II) to assume the duties of Deputy Director of Athletics for External Relations beginning August 14th. In his time at NCU, Knipe has served in numerous levels of leadership within athletics including assistant men's basketball coach, head track and field/xc coach, assistant athletic communications director, director of athletic communications, director of athletic compliance, and associate director of external relations. Throughout his years of service, Knipe has built a lasting legacy that includes launching varsity esports, a complete renovation of baseball and softball hitting tunnels, vast increases in fundraising revenue, and helping lead a departmental wide effort to establish the mission, vision, and values for the department. Additionally, under Knipe's leadership, the athletic department attained record numbers for rosters and recruited student-athletes while building the entire department's competitive equity across the conference. 
 
With his departure, Knipe stated, "North Central University will always hold a special place in my heart. I believe that some of the finest coaches and student-athletes around the globe are found walking the hallways of NCU, and I am excited to see the future success of many as athletics remains committed to Cultivating Christ-Centered Champions. I will be forever grateful to so many people for the time, energy, and love poured into me along this wonderful journey. Though there are many, I'd like to specifically thank former AD's Greg Hayton, Jon High, Greg Johnson, and Travis Whipple for the significant impact that they had in laying a foundation for me to build upon. Each of these individuals helped push athletics further, and I am forever grateful for their impact. I would also like to thank each of our coaches who chose to pursue something special with me. It was an absolute pleasure to serve with you, and I am so excited to cheer for you in the future. To former NCU President, Dr. Scott Hagan, thank you for giving the freedom to pursue this dream and always encouraging me along the way. There are so many others, like Dr. Jason Wenschlag, Bill Tibbetts, Aimee Robertson, Devin Lehnhoff, Katie DeWitt, and Jeremy Becker, who pushed me on a daily basis. I know I could go on and on, but I truly am grateful for each interaction with every person at NCU whether named or unnamed. You are what makes this place so special!"
 
Knipe's last day on campus will be August 8th. The future direction of the athletic program will be guided by Dr. Desiree Libengood in the interim.