Simpson College Names Jason Milligan New Athletic Director

Mulligan brings over 20 years of NCAA Division III experience as an administrator and coach.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:27pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a college basketball game, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange hues.The appointment of a new athletic director signals an important leadership transition for Simpson College's sports programs.Rockford Today

Simpson College has named Jason Mulligan as its new director of athletics. Mulligan comes to Simpson with more than two decades of experience in NCAA Division III athletics, including an eight-year stint as director of athletics at Rockford University in Illinois.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new athletic director is an important leadership transition for any college or university, as this role oversees the entire athletic department and programs. Mulligan's extensive background in Division III athletics suggests he has the experience to continue developing Simpson's sports teams and facilities.

The details

At Rockford University, Mulligan focused on implementing a strategic plan to strengthen recruitment and retention, as well as overseeing several facility enhancement projects and adding six new varsity sports, including the first NCAA Division III women's flag football program in the Midwest. Prior to Rockford, Mulligan held various administrative and coaching roles, including director of athletic facilities and head men's basketball coach at the University of New England, where his teams made three postseason appearances and won a conference championship.

  • Mulligan will begin his duties at Simpson on June 1, 2026.

The players

Jason Mulligan

The new director of athletics at Simpson College, bringing over 20 years of NCAA Division III experience as an administrator and coach.

Rockford University

The Illinois university where Mulligan served as director of athletics for eight years prior to accepting the role at Simpson College.

University of New England

The Maine university where Mulligan previously held dual roles as director of athletic facilities and head men's basketball coach.

Wabash College

The college where Mulligan spent five years as assistant director of athletics and assistant basketball coach.

Olivet Nazarene University

The university where Mulligan played basketball and was inducted into the school's Hall of Fame after participating in four NAIA Division I National Basketball Tournaments, including a Final 4 appearance in 2000.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason Mulligan to Simpson College as our new director of athletics. His extensive experience and proven track record of success in NCAA Division III athletics make him the ideal candidate to lead our sports programs into the future.”

— Dr. Marsha Kelliher, President, Simpson College

The takeaway

Mulligan's appointment as Simpson College's new athletic director brings a wealth of NCAA Division III leadership experience that should help strengthen the college's sports teams and facilities in the years ahead.