UNC Pembroke names Scott Byrd director of athletics

UNC Pembroke has named Scott Byrd director of athletics, Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings announced at a press conference Thursday, selecting a seasoned Division I leader with a track record of building programs, driving revenue growth and elevating the student-athlete experience.

Byrd becomes the university’s 11th director of athletics, arriving at a time of unprecedented and continued momentum for BraveNation — from conference championships to growing fan engagement and ongoing investment in facilities and student-athlete support. He officially assumes the role on June 15.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to join UNCP as the next director of athletics,” Byrd said. “This is a university with a rich history, a deeply rooted connection to its community and an unwavering commitment to student-athlete success.”

He pointed to the program’s upward trajectory and strong foundation as key factors in his decision.

“I look forward to building on the incredible foundation already in place and leading the Braves into a new era of championship excellence,” Byrd said. “I personally want to thank Chancellor Cummings for his belief in my vision and for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity.”

Cummings said Byrd’s experience leading complex athletics operations and his ability to align competitive success with student-athlete development made him the right choice at a pivotal moment for the department.

“Throughout this search, it became clear that Scott is the right leader to continue the high standards set over the last 13 years by outgoing Director Dick Christy. Scott left widespread positive impressions during a very exhaustive search process,” Cummings said. “Scott gets it and understands the important role athletics plays in shaping the student experience, strengthening institutional pride, and in name and brand recognition in today’s competitive environment.”

Byrd currently serves as executive associate athletic director for external affairs at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he oversees all external operations, including marketing, strategic communications, ticketing, branding, multimedia rights and digital production.

During his tenure at Charlotte, Byrd has played a key role in the department’s long-term growth, including helping launch the university’s football program and guiding its transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision — the highest level of NCAA competition. He has also chaired multiple head coaching search committees and partnered on major initiatives tied to facilities, revenue generation and program development.

A member of the department’s executive leadership team, Byrd also manages key areas within a $50 million Division I athletics budget and serves as sport administrator for men’s basketball. He has helped establish new ticket revenue benchmarks while expanding fan engagement and strengthening the program’s overall brand visibility.

Earlier in his career, Byrd served in compliance leadership roles at both North Carolina State University and Wake Forest University. He began his professional career working in financial aid at Central Piedmont Community College.

“Scott’s vision aligns with our commitment to championship excellence, academic achievement and the continued development of our student-athletes,” Cummings said. “Without question, he will build on the strong momentum of UNC Pembroke and UNCP Athletics.”

Byrd’s appointment follows a comprehensive national search led by Coach4Aday and founder Dan Kenney, who previously served UNCP as both chief of staff and director of athletics. Kenney partnered with a 14-member search committee composed of representatives from across campus and the broader BraveNation community.

Jess Boersma, chief of staff and vice chancellor for strategic initiatives, chaired the committee and said Byrd’s leadership and vision for the future of college athletics stood out throughout the process.

“Scott understands how to build a program that competes at a high level while staying grounded in student success,” Boersma said. “He brings the experience, perspective and energy needed to lead our athletics program into its next chapter.”

Byrd holds a Master of Science in Leadership and Organizational Change from Pfeiffer University and earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

He and his wife, Jenny, have four children: Matt, 19; Duncan, 16; Everett, 12; and Mallory, 9.