I write today to share my sincere gratitude for the support and friendship from Elon nation that has been extended to my family and me during my 17 years of service as Elon University's Director of Athletics.

When I arrived at Elon in 2006, I could see that the foundation was solid and great things could happen for our student-athletes. Thanks to your involvement, we have built on that foundation and advanced nearly every facet of the athletics department. Our work together has enabled student-athletes to reach new heights and achievements – many unimaginable. And it certainly is not lost on me that everyone involved played an important role as team members in this great progress. 

Collectively, we have developed outstanding resources and opportunities for our student-athletes. We have great coaches and administrators – our staff has nearly doubled since I arrived, and student-athletes benefit every day from that excellent support and mentorship. We successfully grew scholarship support to fund scholarships at the Division I level. Our facilities have advanced tremendously – every competition site, practice facility, office space and student-support space now provides a great Division I environment. Academic excellence has been a hallmark of our programs, with student-athletes consistently leading our conference in Graduation Success Rates. And all of our teams now have the opportunity for global study experiences, with student-athletes representing Elon athletics around the world. I am so proud to have been a part of all of these accomplishments in support of our student-athletes and coaches. 

Elon has been a great home to the Blank family. All of us have developed great friendships here and we are grateful for those relationships. I am particularly proud of the many coaches and student-athletes who I have had the privilege of working with and getting to know personally. It has been a joy to watch them compete for championships and experience their moments of competitive glory – and there have been many! I am forever grateful that they invited me to join them on their journeys and I cherish those relationships.  

I am excited about the future of Elon athletics and the prospects for continued success. I fully intend to remain a Phoenix fan, cheering on our teams and celebrating their achievements. I wish nothing but the best for our coaches and teams and am excited to watch new leadership continue to ensure that the Phoenix rise! Also, I am hopeful that everyone involved will provide your support for Jenn Strawley, our new Director of Athletics, as you did when I arrived. 

Finally, I am very grateful for the many friends who have helped me throughout my Elon career. I look forward to seeing you soon and offering my gratitude in person. Together, we have influenced the lives of thousands, and I hope you feel the same pride I do. 

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your friendship and support – and forever, GO PHOENIX!! 

With abundant gratitude, 
Dave Blank