Long Beach State’s Shumard Promoted to University Post

Bill Shumard, whose marketing knowledge is cited as one of the keys to the Pyramid’s successful inaugural year, has been promoted from assistant athletic director to senior director of marketing and donor relations for Long Beach State, the university announced Monday.

Shumard, 44, held similar duties in the 49er athletic department since joining its administrative staff in June, 1994, after resigning as athletic director at Cal State Fullerton. His new position takes effect today, but Shumard will continue in an advisory role for athletics.

“I’m delighted,” Shumard said. “To play an important role in strategic planning at a key time in this university’s history is an honor. President [Robert] Maxson has a vision of what he wants this university to be, and I’m glad I can play a part in that.”

Long Beach Athletic Director Dave O’Brien said the appointment is well deserved.

“I’ve never seen a better match between an athletic department’s needs and an individual’s skills than what Bill brought to us this year at Long Beach,” O’Brien said. “With his talent and ability, we knew Bill wouldn’t be with us long. We’re just happy we could keep him at the university to continue to draw from his expertise.”

A 1972 graduate of Long Beach, Shumard’s responsibilities included athletic administration and development. He was chiefly responsible for creating the marketing strategy for the Pyramid, which is exceeding the athletic department’s attendance and financial expectations. His position will not be filled, O’Brien said, but his duties will be reassigned within the department.

Shumard has occupied a variety of athletic administration posts throughout the Southland, including 13 years as director of community services and special events for the Dodgers. He was the Titans’ athletic director for three years and also served as an assistant athletic director at USC.