COLLEGE PARK, Md. - University of Maryland Director of Athletics Damon Evans has named Brady Rourke Associate Athletic Director - Director of Gossett Student-Athlete Center.
 
Rourke brings 16 years of experience within higher education and student-athlete academic services to Maryland, most recently spending the last three years as the Executive Director of the Student Learning Center at Appalachian State University.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Brady, his wife Amanda and three children to the University of Maryland family," Evans said. "The personal and professional development, in addition to the overall well-being of our student-athletes, is paramount to our athletics department. Brady fits the bill having gained valuable experience in student-athlete development roles across a variety of highly esteemed Division I institutions. We look forward to Brady melding his vision with the principles of our athletics department to ensure student-athlete welfare and advancement."
 
In his role at Appalachian State, Rourke was instrumental in revolutionizing the student learning center, as he renamed and rebranded the center while refining its mission, goals, objectives and assessment within the department. He oversaw six units, including professional staff (23) and graduate assistants (25), while also serving on eight committees within academic affairs, enrollment management and athletics.
 
"I couldn't be more excited to join The Gossett Center for Student-Athlete Academic and Personal Excellence at the University of Maryland," said Rourke. "Sincerest thanks to Dr. Sue Sherburne, the administration and others for the opportunity to serve in this incredible role. I can't wait to work alongside the administration, faculty, staff, coaches, and student-athletes, as together we continue to cultivate a culture of academic and personal excellence!" 
 
Prior to Appalachian State, Rourke was the Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Academic Services at West Virginia University (2014-16) and was also involved with student-athlete academic services at Syracuse University (2013-14), Penn State University (2007-13) and Arizona State University (2006-07).
 
Rourke graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services Education (2003), before earning his Master of Education in Higher Education Administration (2006). He is currently a candidate for Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.
 
Rourke is an active member of the National Association of Academic and Student-Athlete Development Professionals (N4A), and served on the Board of Directors (2014-2019). 
 
Rourke is married to Amanda (nee) Bliss and has three children: Brennon, Easton and Shane.