A-State Athletics announces expanded role for Dr. Cliff Harrell

Longtime administrator takes on additional leadership responsibilities at Arkansas university.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:40pm

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A cubist, geometric painting in the colors of Arkansas State University sports teams, with overlapping planes and shapes representing the dynamic changes in the school's athletic leadership.Arkansas State University's athletics department undergoes a leadership restructuring, with longtime administrator Dr. Cliff Harrell taking on expanded responsibilities.Jonesboro Today

Arkansas State University has announced that Dr. Cliff Harrell, the school's Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics, will be taking on an expanded leadership role within the A-State athletics department. The move comes as part of a broader reorganization effort by the university.

Why it matters

As one of the most prominent figures in Arkansas State's sports program, Dr. Harrell's expanded responsibilities will likely have a significant impact on the direction and priorities of the university's entire athletic division.

The details

In his new role, Dr. Harrell will oversee a wider range of athletic department operations and strategic initiatives beyond his previous portfolio. The university cited Dr. Harrell's extensive experience and successful track record in intercollegiate athletics administration as key factors behind the decision to expand his leadership position.

  • The announcement was made on April 7, 2026.

The players

Dr. Cliff Harrell

The Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics at Arkansas State University, who will be taking on expanded leadership responsibilities within the A-State athletics department.

Chris Pezman

The Arkansas State University Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics, who announced Dr. Harrell's expanded role.

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What they’re saying

“Dr. Harrell's proven leadership and deep understanding of intercollegiate athletics make him the ideal person to guide our sports programs into the future.”

— Chris Pezman, Arkansas State University Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics

The takeaway

This move solidifies Dr. Harrell's position as a key decision-maker within the Arkansas State athletics department, and signals the university's commitment to strengthening its sports programs under his expanded leadership.