UT names Cronan interim athletic director

KNOXVILLE - The University of Tennessee has named Joan Cronan as its interim vice chancellor/athletic director, the school announced Thursday.

Cronan, who's been the athletic director for the separate women's athletic department at UT since the 1983-84 season, will take over officially on Monday, when former men's athletic director Mike Hamilton, who announced his resignation on Tuesday, will officially begin his administrative leave.

"I am humbled and honored by this opportunity, and I greatly appreciate the chancellor's faith in me," Cronan said in a UT release.

"This is an exciting time for Tennessee athletics, as we have a great team of coaches, staff, and student-athletes. It has been a tremendous honor to serve this university for thirty years, and I am grateful for the chance to play an integral role in helping shape the bright future of Tennessee athletics."

Cronan will hold the position until a permanent athletic director is named. UT chancellor Jimmy Cheek said Tuesday he hopes to have his national search completed and a hire made by the time football season begins in September.

"Joan Cronan epitomizes the Volunteer spirit," Cheek said. "She has been a vital part of Tennessee athletics for thirty years and will provide proven leadership during our transitional period. I appreciate her willingness to assume this responsibility."

The new athletic director will become the senior administrator for the entire athletic department. Cronan will remain as women's athletic director through June 2012 before beginning a two-year term as a senior adviser to the vice chancellor and chancellor.

More coverage online, on Twitter and in Friday's Times Free Press.

Upcoming Events