KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Western Michigan University Vice President and Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae has announced the promotion of eleven athletic department staff members. These promotions reflect WMU's commitment to supporting the professional growth of its staff while advancing the department's strategic plan.  

"I am thrilled to announce the promotions of Zannie Black, Greg Cronkite, Matt Kulik, Hans Zoeller, Adriana Diaz, Hunter Stratfold, Max Elder, Miranda Boucard, Bethany Dolezal, Alexis French and Kelsie Nimke," said Bartholomae. "These individuals are leaders within our department and provide expertise in their respective units, making these promotions well-deserved. In addition, during a time of significant change throughout our industry, we remain committed to resourcing those departments that directly impact the student-athlete experience."  

Zannie Black has been elevated to Associate Athletic Director of Compliance. In his expanded role, Black will oversee all compliance operations for WMU Athletics, ensuring complete adherence to NCAA, conference, and University rules and regulations. He will lead comprehensive education and monitoring programs for student-athletes, coaches, and staff, serving as a vital resource in upholding integrity across Bronco Athletics. 

 

Greg Cronkite will now serve as the Associate Athletic Director of Fan Engagement and Digital Strategies. Cronkite will direct efforts to enhance the fan experience, strengthen digital storytelling, and grow WMU's presence across social and digital platforms. In this expanded role, he will have direct oversight of all marketing and fan engagement efforts for the department, as well as overseeing Bronco Productions. He will continue to collaborate across departments to align creative content, in-venue atmosphere, and fan engagement initiatives.  

 

Matt Kulik has been elevated to Associate Athletic Director of Facilities and Operations. With extensive expertise in facilities and operations, he will lead both the day-to-day management and the long-term planning of WMU Athletics' facilities. His responsibilities include overseeing event operations and facility scheduling. He will also assist with capital projects as the department continues to enhance its athletic facilities.  

 

Hans Zoeller has been promoted to Associate Athletic Director of Information Technology. He will continue to lead the department's IT strategy, security, and infrastructure, ensuring that Bronco Athletics operates with cutting-edge technology solutions. His leadership will play a key role in enhancing digital operations, improving efficiency, and supporting innovation across the department. 

 

Adriana Diaz will serve the department as an Assistant Athletic Director, Academic Advisor. In her new expanded role, Diaz will continue to guide WMU student-athletes in their academic pursuits while overseeing academic advising, monitoring progress, and ensuring student-athletes have the educational support and resources needed to pursue their academic goals. Her leadership ensures the Broncos excel in the classroom and are prepared for life beyond competition. 

 

Hunter Stratfold has been promoted to Director of Bronco Productions. Stratfold will oversee all aspects of creative content and live event production, including in-venue shows, broadcasts, and digital storytelling initiatives. His team plays a critical role in showcasing Bronco student-athletes, elevating the gameday atmosphere, and building WMU's national brand presence through innovative multimedia projects. 

 

Max Elder has been elevated to Assistant Director of Medical Services. Elder will support WMU's sports medicine program through his leadership in student-athlete care and wellness. In additional to covering his assigned teams, this new role will include assisting with medical services administration, collaborating with athletic training staff, and ensuring that Bronco student-athletes receive comprehensive health and safety support. 

 

Miranda Boucard will now serve as an Associate Athletic Trainer. She will continue to support football and cheer programs. Boucard's comprehensive approach to athlete health and safety includes injury management, rehabilitation, and performance optimization. Her leadership contributes to the ongoing excellence of WMU's sports medicine unit and supports the holistic well-being of Bronco student-athletes.  

 

Bethany Dolezal has been promoted to Associate Athletic Trainer, where she will continue to serve WMU's Hockey and Dance programs. Dolezal plays a vital role in coordinating the medical and performance needs of Bronco student-athletes, with a focus on injury prevention, treatment, and return-to-play management. Her professionalism, expertise, and experience in high-performance environments make her a valued member of the WMU Sports Medicine team. 

 

Alexis French has been elevated to Associate Athletic Trainer and will provide dedicated medical coverage and support for WMU's Baseball and Golf programs. French will oversee injury prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation, ensuring that student-athletes receive the highest level of care. Her leadership and commitment to advancing sports medicine practices continue to strengthen the health and performance of Bronco student-athletes. 

 

Kelsie Nimke has been promoted to Associate Athletic Trainer, overseeing the medical care and performance support for WMU's Gymnastics and Cross Country programs. Nimke provides comprehensive leadership in injury prevention, evaluation, and rehabilitation, ensuring the health and readiness of her student-athletes. Her commitment to student-athlete wellness and her collaborative approach within the Sports Medicine team continue to elevate the standard of care across Bronco Athletics.