LOUISVILLE, Ky. – After leading the Spalding University athletic department for the past 17 years, Athletic Director, Roger Burkman announced that he will retire at the end of June 2022.

"It's been an honor to work alongside Roger the past 17 years," said Spalding University President, Tori Murden-McClure. "His passion for aiding the growth and development of young people through sport is unparalleled, and is evident by how hard he has worked to grow our athletic department for nearly two decades," added McClure. "Roger's legacy and impact on our campus and community will continue long after his retirement and we cannot thank him enough," concluded McClure.

Under the guidance of Burkman, the Spalding athletic department has undergone a complete transformation, transitioning from NAIA to NCAA, growing the athletic department to 18 varsity programs, as well as spearheading a $7 million athletic fields complex and $1.4 million renovation of the Columbia Gym Building.

"I am thankful to Spalding President Tori Murden McClure for the opportunity in 2005 to join the University as its athletic director," stated Burkman. "During my 17 years here, the University has witnessed significant growth and positive changes to the size of the athletic department and campus footprint. This success is due in no small part to the wonderful people with whom I have been blessed to work. I'm grateful to have had such an amazing team, I'm appreciative of my Athletic Advisory Board, and I'm humbled by all the friends who helped us get to where we are today.

In addition to program additions and facility upgrades, Spalding athletic teams saw great success during the past 17 years winning 24 conference championships, four USCAA National Championships and making two NCAA postseason appearances.

Burkman also worked alongside the Louisville Sports Commission to bring three NCAA Division III Cross Country National Championship meets to the Louisville community.

While I'm proud of the legacy I've left, that pales in comparison to how proud I am of my staff," said Burkman. "I am equally proud of the student-athletes who chose to attend Spalding University and left with a degree. The students are the reason why we do what we do – help them be successful in the classroom, on the field, and in life.  I thank God for Spalding University.  It's been an amazing ride!"

Prior to his tenure with Spalding, Burkman spent 11 years at Trinity High School serving as the senior development officer. Burkman is also a member of the University of Louisville 1980 NCAA Men`s Basketball Championship Team, where he played four years for Hall of Fame coach Denny Crum. After college, he played one year professionally with the NBA Chicago Bulls and the CBA Anchorage Knights.