TACOMA, Wash. — The Pacific Lutheran University Athletic Department announced the promotion of Robert Thompson to Associate Athletic Director. 
 
Thompson arrived in Luteville in August of 2013 as the Coordinator of Recreation and was elevated to Assistant Athletic Director for Recreation prior to the 2017-2018 academic year. In his transition to Associate Athletic Director, Thompson will take on general oversight of Names Fitness Center and be the direct report for the strength and conditioning program and Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Zach Walther. 

"When you think about the heart of what it means to be Lute, being inclusive with all the core values and impact on others, Rob checks all those boxes," said Athletic Director Mike Snyder.  
 
"Since his arrival over 12 years ago, Rob took a hold of the leadership of a huge part of our department and has continued to impact Lutes ever since.  He's a critical part of our Lute community and is valued across campus."  
 
Under Thompson's leadership, student participation in intramural programming has increased over 40 percent through innovative marketing to students and partnerships with several departments on campus. His efforts have elevated PLU's profile nationally, being named by Bestcolleges.com as one of the Top 50 intramural programs in the country. Thompson advises the club sports program and an outdoor recreation program that was named the 2017 Club & Organization of the Year by Associated Students of Pacific Lutheran University (ASPLU). Thompson also oversees the group exercise and bike co-op programs.