Originally posted on gorunners.com
Following a national search, President Vernon B. Harper Jr. has announced the appointment of Andy Fiske to lead Cal State Bakersfield's Athletic Program into a new era of success and pride. Fiske, who currently serves as Sacramento State Senior Associate Athletic Director, will be the fifth permanent Director of Athletics in the history of the university.
Dr. Harper said he and CSUB's search committee were impressed with the breadth of Fiske's two decades of experience across most aspects of collegiate and professional athletics leadership.
"Collegiate athletics is a new world today, and every NCAA university program in the nation is reckoning with this moment," Dr. Harper said. "Andy brings an enviable track record in all aspects of athletics administration, making him the right leader at the right time for Kern County's University. Andy also has a heart for student-athletes, providing them with the foundation they need for fulfilling competitive careers in college and – more importantly – successful lives beyond graduation. I can't wait to introduce this exciting leader to the 'Runner family and our community."
Fiske brings a perspective that Athletics can be both an important student-success partner and a visible ambassador for the university. His career has centered on building relationships that create value for Athletics, the university and the surrounding community.
"I am excited to join the CSU Bakersfield community and deeply honored to be chosen to lead CSUB Athletics," Fiske said. "I look forward to serving our student-athletes, supporting the university's mission, and building strong relationships throughout the Bakersfield community. Our goal is to win - on and off the field, court and mat - through hard work, grit and integrity. CSUB Athletics is an important part of the fabric of this community and, together, we will work to make the university and the city of Bakersfield proud."
Fiske currently serves as Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs & Chief Revenue Officer at Sacramento State, a position he has held since 2022. As part of the senior leadership team in the Athletics Department, Fiske provides strategic leadership, planning and oversight of revenue generation and serves as the sports administrator for football, men's basketball and women's golf. During his tenure, Sacramento State has experienced record growth in corporate partnerships, tickets sales and philanthropic giving while securing the Athletic Department's largest corporate partnership. He also oversees the marketing and community relations department.
Before joining Sacramento State, Fiske spent five years with Learfield, one of the nation's leading collegiate athletics sports marketing companies, serving as general manager for UC Davis Sports Properties. With the Aggies, he grew revenue by more than 80 percent, was instrumental in securing a long-term naming rights partner for the university's basketball facility, negotiated radio and television contracts, and developed and executed fully integrated digital partnership marketing campaigns.
Earlier in his career, Fiske served with a number of professional sports teams, including the Sacramento River Cats, the Sacramento Republic, the San Jose Sharks and the Oakland Athletics.
A native of Sacramento, Fiske graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with a bachelor's degree in industrial technology. Fiske has been married to his wife, Cathy, for 27 years and they are the parents of three children: Freddie, Calvin and Esther Drew.
Fiske is expected on campus in mid-October to begin the leadership transition in Athletics, which has been stewarded by Acting Director of Athletics
Dr. Sarah Tuohy since 2025.
"I want to thank Dr. Tuohy for stepping up at a time of incredible transition for the Athletics Program," Dr. Harper said. "She contributed a tireless work ethic and deep devotion to the coaches, athletes and university, and our community owes her a debt of gratitude for providing stability and a culture of caring."
What others are saying about Andy Fiske
Dr. J. Luke Wood, President, Sacramento State University:
"Andy Fiske has been an outstanding member of the Sacramento State family, and I am thrilled to see him take this next step as Director of Athletics at Cal State Bakersfield. Andy brings tremendous experience, energy and integrity to his work, along with a deep understanding of the role athletics can play in strengthening a university's connection with its students, alumni and broader community. Cal State Bakersfield won big with Andy's hire. The entire Hornet family is cheering for him and the Roadrunners."
Mark Orr, Director of Athletics, Sacramento State University:
"I've had the pleasure to partner with Andy at Sacramento State, where he has made a lasting impact in building the success of our athletic program. I have no doubt Andy will lead with character, integrity, and a deep commitment to student-athlete development. Cal State Bakersfield is not only appointing a successful Director of Athletics, but an even better leader and community builder. The future is extremely bright for Roadrunner Athletics with Andy leading the way."
Rocko DeLuca, Director of Athletics, UC Davis:
"I'm fortunate to count Andy as a close friend and colleague. I've watched him grow into a talented and well-rounded athletics administrator who builds genuine relationships, understands the business of college athletics and cares deeply about the people around him. Andy has been intentional in preparing himself for this opportunity, and I'm excited for him and his family as he takes this next step in his career."
Mike Matoso, Director of Athletics, St. Mary's College:
"Great hire by Cal State Bakersfield with naming Andy Fiske as their new athletic director. Andy is a natural leader and fundraiser. He will be a great member of the Bakersfield community and raise the profile for not only Athletics but the entire university."