Waggoner brings plenty of experience to the position, serving as AD for Western State Colorado University for 20 years.
"Greg Waggoner is an excellent addition to Eastern New Mexico University," said Dr. Gamble. "He has a sustained record of successful leadership and I feel certain he will be an outstanding athletic director."
Waggoner served as Western State's Director of Athletics from 1994-2014. During his time as athletic director, Western State won 11 NCAA Division two (DII) national team championships, 97 national "top ten" team finishes, and 32 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) team championships. The University also placed in the "Top 44" of the NCAA DII Director's Cup standings for 19 straight years, an amazing run.
In addition to these athletic accomplishments, Western State student-athletics maintained graduation rates higher than the school's general student population and eleven were named Academic All-American.
Waggoner is an alum of Western State and returned there in 1985 as head wrestling coach and instructor in exercise and sport medicine. He helped secure and oversaw over $37 million in athletic faculty improvements. Waggoner is also involved in numerous community initiatives and served as President of the NCAA Division II Athletic Director's Association for two years
He holds a doctorate in sports management from the University of Northern Colorado and left Western State with the rank of associate professor.
Dr. Waggoner said, "I am honored to be provided this exciting opportunity by President Gamble. It is very clear to me that the culture at ENMU is very attractive and collegial, which reflects well on President Gamble's leadership. I feel fortunate to step into the big shoes that Dr. Jeff Geiser leaves after serving as the athletic director for the past seven years. His leadership has positioned Greyhound Athletics extremely well for his successor.
My career has been committed to the education and personal development of the student-athletics for over 35 years and my commitment will remain as I embark on this journey with the Greyhound Athletic staff, as well as the ENMU faculty and staff. My wife, Gloria, and I look forward to being part of the ENMU family and Portales community for the years to come."
Waggoner replaces Dr. Jeff Geiser, who is retiring after seven years as the ENMU Athletic Director. President Gamble said: "The University will certainly miss Jeff Geiser, but we are excited to employ Greg Waggoner."
