Simpson College President Marsha Kelliher has named Marty Bell as the next Athletic Director, after a two-month long national search. Bell was previously at Quincy University in Quincy, Illinois, serving as the Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, spending 13 years at the Division-II school overseeing facility upgrades, an increase of student-athletes by more than 50%, and added multiple programs to the athletic department. Quincy finished in the top half of the Great Lakes Valley Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings in 10 out of 12 seasons and the number of academic all-conference honorees more than doubled from 2012-17 under Bell’s tenure. Bell said in a statement:

“I am overwhelmingly excited about this opportunity. I was so impressed with everyone I met during my interview. Having good people to work with every day creates a strong foundation for success. With President Kelliher’s vision and leadership and her plans for the future, I am eager to get to work. Athletics is an integral part of her vision and we will work together to ensure we elevate Simpson College to the best institution possible for its students, faculty and staff.”

Bell will take over for Interim Athletic Director Keith Hackett, and will be introduced to the campus community Jan. 4, 2021. The exact time and location of the introduction are yet to be determined.