In the year since he was named Director of Athletics in May 2024, Ricky Ray has overseen significant growth and development within Stetson Athletics.
Under his leadership, Stetson completed Phase One of the Edmunds Center project, a comprehensive renovation that introduced new fan amenities, including upgraded seating, restrooms, and a modern sound system. The project also included the construction of new locker rooms and the renovation of the existing basketball locker rooms.
The Wilson Athletic Center also saw a series of upgrades, including the unveiling of a new academic space. This 1,500-square-foot facility provides a dedicated area for student-athletes to study, receive tutoring, and participate in mentoring programs. Additionally, a new weight room was completed, creating a second full-training space for Hatter athletes. The athletic training room was renovated, and new conference rooms and office spaces were added.
The Cooper Beach Volleyball Complex was expanded with two new courts and extended seating areas for fans.
Beyond facility enhancements, Ray's tenure has been marked by key administrative and coaching appointments. He hired three new head coaches: Mike Jasper (football), Sue Murphy (lacrosse), and Kristin McWilliams (cross-country). Ray also restructured several internal departments and established a new ticket sales and operations agreement with Playfly Aspire.
Ray brings extensive experience to Stetson, having previously served in senior leadership roles at multiple Division I institutions.
As the Executive Associate Athletics Director at William & Mary from 2022 to 2024, Ray served as the department's chief business strategist. He was responsible for developing revenue-generating initiatives, including strategic partnerships and external contracts for multimedia rights, apparel, and licensing. Ray oversaw marketing, communications, creative services, ticketing, and corporate sales, and was a sport administrator for men's basketball and women's soccer. During his tenure, the university saw numerous increases in revenue and attendance.
Before joining William & Mary, Ray was the Deputy Athletics Director at Campbell University for six years. He successfully increased corporate sales, ticket revenue, and licensing. Notably, during the COVID-19-shortened 2020 football season, he arranged a four-game series against Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponents, which resulted in national television coverage and millions of dollars in exposure. He was also the sport administrator for football, men's basketball, and men's soccer and oversaw the on-campus operations of the Buies Creek Astros, a Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Houston Astros.
Ray's background also includes experience in external affairs at Troy University, media relations and marketing at Georgia Southern University, and broadcasting at East Carolina University. He also has a background in revenue generation within Minor League Baseball.
Ray holds a Doctor of Education from Marshall University, a Master of Science in Sport Science from the University of Central Missouri, and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Campbell University.
Â
Â
