EDMOND – University of Central Oklahoma president Todd G. Lamb announced Thursday afternoon the promotion of Stan Wagnon to Vice President for Athletics, effective Jan. 1, 2024.
"He will join the University Cabinet, serving as a strong voice for our student-athletes and Athletics programs in conversations regarding UCO's strategic direction," Lamb said in an email to faculty and staff.
Wagnon, now the first Vice President for Athletics in university history, became UCO's athletic director in August 2020. He returned to Central after 15 years in intercollegiate athletics conference administration, serving as commissioner of both the Lone Star Conference (NCAA Division II) and the Sooner Athletic Conference (NAIA). His previous work includes roles in sports information at UCO, Midwestern State and Tarleton State.
An Edmond native, Wagnon earned his bachelor's degree in journalism/public relations from UCO in 1995, when he was named Outstanding PR Student of the Year. He also holds a master's degree from Midwestern State University. His father (Skip) worked at Central for more than 30 years and served as athletic director from 1986-2003.
Under Stan's leadership, the Bronchos have claimed two NCAA national championships, three national runner-up finishes and 11 conference titles. The university's teams also have made 20 NCAA postseason appearances in eight different sports and claimed six NCAA regional championships.
Stan also has overseen major enhancements to Chad Richison Stadium, including seating expansion to more than 12,000, a new playing surface and improved digital signage. He has helped create opportunities for UCO to host outside events such as OKC Spark professional softball, NAIA Stunt National Championship and the OSSAA high school state football championship games, which recently garnered UCO attention from Sports Destination magazine as a Champion of Economic Impact.
Throughout his career, Stan has emerged as a national leader in intercollegiate athletics. He has served as chair of the NCAA Division II Nominating Committee and a member of the NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Committee. Most recently, he served a two-year term as chair of the MIAA Athletics Administrators Council and was selected by Edmond Mayor Darrell Davis to represent UCO on the Visit Edmond tourism advisory board.
"We're so fortunate to have him leading our Broncho Athletics teams to success and to now have his expertise on the Cabinet," Lamb added.
