UNCP Athletics Director Dick Christy to Step Down After 13 Years

Dick Christy will leave his position as athletics director at UNC Pembroke when the spring semester ends. He's led the program for 13 years.

Christy stays on through this academic year. Then he moves into a new job: deputy chief of staff and special assistant to the chancellor. Since 2013, he's managed 16 varsity sports.

"UNCP is home, and serving as athletics director in this community has been the privilege of my career," Christy said, in a news release. "The foundation in place is strong competitively, academically, and financially. I am excited to support the next leader as they build on that momentum."

During his time there, the Braves won 30 conference championships. They racked up more than 40 NCAA postseason appearances across different sports. The department grabbed the Conference Carolinas Joby Hawn Trophy three seasons running.

Six teams made NCAA postseason play this academic year. Men's basketball reached the Sweet 16 for the first time ever, and women's basketball qualified for back-to-back NCAA tournaments.

Fundraising climbed under Christy. Cash Bash brought in nearly $190,000 in 2025. That event has now topped $1 million across its 12-year run.

The university put $10 million into an outdoor sports and recreation complex. It has indoor hitting facilities, lights, fencing, and new seating for baseball and softball. A new softball facility now has concessions, storage, and restrooms.

"Dick has built a championship culture at UNCP rooted in student-athlete success, academic excellence, and integrity," said Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings. "The next athletics director will inherit a Braves program with strong competitive momentum, institutional support, and a clear commitment to continued growth."

Coach4Aday will run the nationwide search. Dan Kenney, the founder, serves as lead consultant.