Eastern Illinois University names Mark Wilson Director of Athletics

CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) - Eastern Illinois University has named Mark Wilson Director of Athletics.

Wilson brings more than three decades of Division I experience to EIU. He previously spent 21 years heading Tennessee Tech University's athletic department.

"Mark Wilson is a national leader in intercollegiate athletics with extensive NCAA Division I FCS experience, a distinction highlighted by his recognition as a NACDA Athletic Director of the Year," said EIU President Jay Gatrell. "Mark's vision aligns perfectly with EIU's commitment to excellence, both in competition and the classroom. Furthermore, his deep understanding of the Ohio Valley Conference represents a tremendous asset to our institution. I am thrilled to welcome him to Panther Nation and am confident that he will elevate the student-athlete experience while positioning our 19 programs for championship-level success."

"I am grateful for President Gatrell's confidence in my leadership and honored to follow my good friend and exceptional athletic director, Tom Michael," Wilson said. "I look forward to partnering with a president who leads with transparency, operates with unparalleled integrity, and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student-athlete success."

Wilson joins Eastern Illinois after a tenure at Tennessee Tech. Under his guidance, the Golden Eagles won more than 45 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) championships and made 18 NCAA postseason appearances.

Wilson has held senior roles at Ohio University and the University of Massachusetts, and served as Chair of the NCAA Division I Football Championship Committee. He was named the 2013 NACDA FCS Athletic Director of the Year.

"I've always believed that college athletics is about changing lives," Wilson said. "Success is measured by the opportunities we create for student-athletes to earn a championship ring on the right hand and a diploma in the left. I'm honored to join Eastern Illinois University and look forward to working alongside our coaches, staff, alumni, and supporters to build on Panther Athletics' proud tradition while creating an exceptional experience for our student-athletes and everyone who proudly wears EIU blue."

Wilson holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Maine and a graduate degree in sports management from UMass's prestigious Isenberg School of Management.

Wilson will begin his tenure as Eastern Illinois University's Director of Athletics on September 1, 2026.