Release by Director of Athletic Communications Luke Tracy 

CLEVELAND, OH (3/20/2024) – On Wednesday, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) announced the recipients of the 2023-24 NACDA AD of the Year Awards (ADOY).

Rachel Burleson made school history as the first Franklin Pierce University athletic director to receive the prestigious award.

For 26 years, the ADOY Award has highlighted efforts of athletics directors at all levels for their commitment and positive contributions to student-athletes, campuses and their surrounding communities.

"This recognition is for the entire Franklin Pierce University team," said Burleson. "I have always believed my job is to hire people smarter than myself and let them do their job. Franklin Pierce Athletics, and the success we have seen, is a true testament of the coaches, staff, and student-athletes. A recognition such as this is only possible when we work together. When I see the other individuals being honored with me, I am in awe. I have so much respect for the work they do. To be honest, I am still in shock."

28 winners from seven divisions (NCAA FBS, FCS, Division I-AAA, II, III, NAIA/Other Four-Year Institutions and Junior College/Community Colleges) received recognition this year with Burleson being one of just four from Division II.

"NACDA is honored to continue the tradition of the Athletics Director of the Year Award and recognize a new class of individuals for 2023-24," said Pat Manak, NACDA Chief Executive Officer. "As an Association it is part of our mission to develop tomorrow's leaders led by today's decision makers, which is why it is so fitting that 21 of the 28 recipients of the ADOY award this year are first-time winners. We are proud to play a small role in growing the pipeline of athletics directors making an impact throughout the industry."

Since her arrival in 2017, Burleson has led Franklin Pierce athletics to new heights with the addition of several new programs including women's rowing, dance/cheer, marching band, and the shift to NCAA division II for the formerly sprint football program. In addition, Burleson has worked diligently to create a winning culture backed by facility improvements, community engagement, and highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion within the department and across campus, to not only develop well-rounded student-athletes, but also well-rounded young adults who will make a difference no matter where they go after graduation.

"Athletics is deeply ingrained in the culture of Franklin Pierce," shared President Kim Mooney '83. "As our athletic director for the last seven years, Rachel has overseen the growth and continued success of our programs, and her leadership has been invaluable. Rachel continues to lead an athletics division that fosters a culture of teamwork, success, and inclusion that positively impacts all members of our community. All of Raven Nation is incredibly proud of this prestigious award."

Reflecting on the news, Burleson said the most fulfilling part of her career is witnessing greatness from those around her, "Seeing them work hard, beat odds, and to see their faces when they surpass even their own expectations. It is so wonderful to be able to be part of our coaches, staff, and student-athletes growth and success." Above all, Burleson added that her career which started with working two assistant coaching jobs for two different schools paid dividends in the years that followed. "College athletics has given me so much, in fact, athletics has given me everything. It has allowed me to pursue an education, given me a family, and allowed me to see the world."

Burleson and the remaining recipients will be celebrated and recognized in conjunction with the 59th Annual NACDA & Affiliates Convention at Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas, Nev., at the beginning of the Association-Wide Featured Session on Tuesday, June 11, starting at 4 p.m.