Dear Campus Community,

I am excited to announce the appointment of Wesley “Wes” Mallette as Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, following a national search. He will assume the role beginning January 2.  

Wes joined UC Riverside in 2018 where he managed all aspects of athletics communications and marketing including external relations, fan experience, and events. A former student athlete at James Madison University, Wes has extensive experience in intercollegiate athletics and the private sector. He served as associate athletics director at UC Berkeley, vice president of communications at Pac-12 Networks, and in corporate and brand communications roles at BET and Viacom.  

Last year, at a time when our Intercollegiate Athletics Department faced not only the challenges of a pandemic but accompanying financial threats, Wes stepped in to lead the department on an interim basis. While implementing organizational changes, he successfully managed the return of team competition. Over the course of the last year, he exhibited his leadership and management strengths as well as many of the skills and qualities that show up in high-performing athletes—analysis, strategic thinking, preparation, and mental toughness in the face of adversity.

In assuming the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics role, Wes will be responsible for the development, management, coordination, overall direction, and oversight of all intercollegiate athletics staff, facilities, and activities for UCR’s Division 1 program. He will also continue implementing the budget and operational plan that moves UCR Athletics toward financial stability.

Thank you to the members of the search committee for their important work. 

Brian Haynes, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs (Chair)

Walter Clark, Distinguished Professor of Music

Christopher Lynch, Dean, Bourns College of Engineering

Mike Magpayo, Head Coach, Men's Basketball

Nikki Palmer, Head Coach, Softball

Julie Salgado, Events Manager, CHASS 

Briana Savage, Graduate Student

Frances Sladek, Professor of Cell Biology & Toxicologist

Sean Varner, Athletics Association Board Representative

Christine Victorino, Associate Chancellor

William Wang, President, Associated Students of UCR

Please join me in congratulating and supporting Wes in his new role. 

Go, Highlanders!