Willamette University announced that Leslie Shevlin will return to Willamette to serve as Athletic Director. Shevlin brings over 22 years of progressive NCAA senior athletic leadership and coaching and a passion for the student athlete experience. Current Athletic Director Rob Passage will remain at Willamette in a new role in Human Resources.
Shevlin’s connection to Willamette runs deep. She spent 14 years at Willamette, beginning as the head coach for men’s and women's swimming before being appointed Associate Athletic Director and Senior Women’s Administrator in 2018. Currently, Leslie is the Senior Associate Athletic Director and Director of Compliance at Williams College, where she serves as the Sport Supervisor, managing the long-term planning and daily operations with 11 head coaches.
Throughout her career, Shevlin has demonstrated her commitment to supporting student-athletes both on and off the field. While at Willamette she was a strong advocate for students as demonstrated by her years as the advisor of the Student-Athletic Advisory Committee, her service as the co-chair of the Division of Student Affairs Student Leadership Development committee, and in her roles on the University Student CARE team and as a Deputy Title IX Coordinator. Her vast experience and knowledge of college athletics, particularly at Willamette, combined with her strengths in mentoring, leadership development, administrative management, and commitment to collaboration will enhance Willamette’s continued efforts to ensure an outstanding, well-rounded student athlete experience.
“This opportunity fills me with enthusiasm, and I look forward to reconnecting with a community and an institution I believe in deeply,” Shevlin said. “I am eager to begin this new chapter, working alongside the department, students, and colleagues across campus. I want to sincerely thank President Steve Thorsett and Vice President of Student Affairs Lisa Landreman for their trust and support.”
After 13 years of dedicated service in Willamette Athletics, Rob Passage will be stepping down from his role as Director of Athletics to take on a new opportunity in Human Resources at Willamette. Passage came to Willamette in 2012 as the Associate Director of Facilities and Operations in Athletics and was appointed to the Director of Athletics role in 2017. Throughout his career, Passage has been a champion for student-athletes. He advocated for students’ meaningful engagement in their communities with a balanced commitment to their academics, their sport, and their overall wellbeing.
“We are grateful for the passion, vision, and unwavering commitment Rob has shown to his work within the Department, the Division of Student Affairs, and to Willamette,” said Lisa Landreman, Vice President of Student Affairs. “His leadership has left an indelible mark on Willamette athletics and while he will be missed in athletics, I am thrilled that he will continue to serve Willamette in this new role.”
“Willamette has felt like home since my family and I arrived and I am thankful that I found my next adventure on campus,” said Passage. “I am so proud of what our student-athletes and staff have been able to accomplish throughout my time here and I look forward to the outstanding years to come under Leslie's leadership. Once a Bearcat, always a Bearcat.”
“Rob's unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional student-athlete experience at Willamette has left a lasting impact," Shevlin said. “As I step into this role, continuing that mission and ensuring that our Bearcat student-athletes receive a transformative experience will remain a top priority.”
Shevlin will officially begin her role on Aug. 6, ensuring a seamless transition in leadership.
