Clay Butler Named Union's First-Ever Vice President for Athletics

Barbourville, Ky. – Union Commonwealth University has named Clay Butler as the institution's first-ever Vice President for Athletics, a cabinet-level position reporting directly to the President. Butler previously served as Interim Executive Director of Athletics, a role he assumed in the summer of 2024.

A longtime member of the Union community, Butler first arrived as a student in the spring of 2002. He earned his bachelor's degree in Health Education in 2003 and continued his education at Union, completing a master's degree in Health Education in 2005.

Butler began his career at Union as an assistant athletic trainer in 2003, advancing to head athletic trainer in 2006 and later serving as Director of Sports Medicine in 2011. His experience extends beyond Union, having worked with the Cincinnati Bengals and Arizona Cardinals as a student intern, as well as serving as a student athletic trainer at the University of Kentucky.

Reflecting on his appointment, Butler expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future of Union Athletics:

"I am honored to be named the Vice President of Athletics at Union. I would like to thank Dr. Washington and the administration for their faith in me. Union is a special place for me and my family, and I am excited for the opportunity to lead our athletic department.

As an aluminous, I know the impact Union has on its students and the community. Our goal is to be competitive across the board, but most importantly to care for our student-athletes and help them grow to achieve their goals not only in sports, but in life as well.

We have a great group of coaches, support staff, faculty and community partners who are committed to helping our students succeed and I look forward to working with them. Lastly, I would like to thank my wife Andra and two sons Hudson and Griffin for their love and support. I could not do this without them."

As Vice President for Athletics, Butler will oversee Union's athletic programs with a focus on competitiveness, student development, community engagement, and financial sustainability. Under his leadership as Interim Athletic Director, Union Athletics has:

• Generated thousands of dollars in new corporate sponsorships and partnerships, strengthening external support for Bulldog athletics.
• Implemented more efficient and effective financial strategies, improving the business operations of the department.
• Reduced the discount rate and overfunding of athletic scholarships, ensuring better resource allocation.
• Introduced cost-saving measures, allowing for net financial gains for the university while maintaining a high level of support for student-athletes.

Union Commonwealth University President Dr. DJ Washington praised Butler's contributions and leadership:

"Clay has been in and around Union Athletics as a student and administrator for more than 20 years. His service and dedication to our alma mater is incredibly inspiring.

He is a true servant leader, who makes it his mission to go all in and be there when our Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs need it most. It's wonderful to see his climb across campus as an innovative leader during one of the most critical times in our institution's history.

Since he took over the program, there has been a boost in morale, coaches have been widely motivated and productive, and relationships have grown exponentially within the community and our peer institutions. Everyone needs a Clay on their team!"

As Vice President for Athletics, Butler will continue to build on the legacy of Union Athletics, ensuring that student-athletes not only compete at the highest levels but also develop as leaders in their communities. His leadership will drive continued growth, stronger partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to excellence—on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.

With a clear vision and a deep-rooted passion for Union, Butler is poised to lead Bulldog Athletics into a new era of success.