OTTAWA, Kan. - Effectively immediately, Ottawa University has named Bruce Tate as its interim director of athletics for the Braves Athletic Department following the recent departure of AD Arabie Conner.
 
Tate joined the University 24 years ago while completing his undergraduate degree in physical education, with an emphasis in recreation administration and health and fitness. As a student, he was a member of the Braves football team and served as the assistant women's basketball coach, first as a student assistant then as a full-time assistant.
 
In 2002, Tate accepted the position as associate director of admissions and worked diligently to build relationships with students and families. Along with his enrollment team, he helped potential students find their home away from home and grow Braves Nation. In 2004, Tate left the Office of Admissions to become the full-time assistant women's basketball coach. He continued his education at Emporia State University where he earned his Master of Science degree in health, physical education, and recreation in 2005. That same year, Tate accepted the role of assistant athletic director.
 
Tate became the head women's basketball coach in 2007, while continuing as assistant athletic director. During his 13 years as head coach, he achieved an overall record of 142-235 and a KCAC record of 112-143. Tate coached 26 All-KCAC performers and 2 NAIA All-Americans. Under his direction, the Braves excelled in the classroom with 11 teams being named NAIA Scholar Teams and 32 students athletes earning Daktronic Scholar Athlete honors.
 
In the summer of 2020, Tate added the role of coordinator of student athlete success to his duties. In this role, he has impacted the academic success of OU student athletes by assisting with advising and enrollment, in addition to supporting them in a variety of other roles.
 
"Bruce is an excellent choice for the interim athletic director position, as he is a dedicated leader with a strong sense of pride in Ottawa University and Braves athletics," said OUKS Campus President Reggies Wenyika. "He has built strong working relationships with many departments across campus, encouraging and supporting students to do their best on and off the playing field. Bruce's dedication, exceptional work ethic, and value for the people he serves will surely be strong foundations as he leads Brave Nation forward."
 
Ottawa University will be launching a national search for a new athletic director.