FROSTBURG, Md. - Frostburg State University announced that the interim tag has been removed from Rubin Stevenson's title making him the University's permanent athletic director, having assumed the interim role in July.

"I want to thank Dr. Smith for giving me the opportunity to lead a department that I care so much about," said Stevenson. "I also want to thank Troy Dell for the strong foundation he left for me to build upon." "On behalf of the entire campus community, I am proud to congratulate Rubin on his permanent position. His institutional knowledge, commitment to FSU's growth and his in-depth knowledge of NCAA athletics and the Mountain East Conference make him perfect for this role," said interim president Darlene Brannigan Smith, PhD.

"Throughout his more than 30 years of service at FSU, Rubin has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to our student-athletes and a clear vision for the future of Frostburg's athletic program." Dr. Smith continued, "He has built and continues to maintain strong relationships with coaches, athletes, faculty and staff, donors and the community and I am confident that under his guidance, our athletic program will continue to thrive and his decisions will drive meaningful, impactful change."

Stevenson began his tenure at FSU in 1992 and has since served in a variety of key leadership roles including head football coach, Director of Compliance and most recently Senior Associate Athletic Director. During his tenure as head football coach, Stevenson led the Bobcats to many victories and helped to elevate the program's competitive profile. Under his leadership, 103 players earned All-Atlantic Central Football Conference honors, three achieved All-American recognition and he was twice named the conference's Coach of the Year. As director of compliance, Stevenson oversaw the academic progress and eligibility of all student-athletes while providing authoritative guidance on NCAA rules and regulations.

Earlier this year, as interim athletic director, Stevenson helped guide the Bobcat football program to its all-time single season wins record and its deepest NCAA Tournament run since 2017. The 2025 squad also became the first in school history to win an NCAA Division II Tournament game, advancing to the quarterfinals.

Throughout his three decades of service, Stevenson has also been instrumental in advancing the University's athletic programs and facilities. Under his leadership, FSU has completed significant upgrades across campus including full renovations of the pool and weight rooms. Stevenson also played a pivotal role in the transformation of Bobcat Stadium, contributing to major enhancements such as updated utilities, a new press box, Presidential Suite, concession stand, improved walkways, an upgraded athletic training room, two team locker rooms and new bleachers.

"One of my priorities as Frostburg's Athletic Director is to strengthen the connection between our athletic programs, our faculty and staff and the broader community, while elevating FSU's reputation as a university known for excellence in Division II athletics," Stevenson said. "I made Frostburg my home more than 30 years ago and, in that time, I've built deep and lasting relationships here. I want our students to know that they, too, can come to Frostburg and find a place they're proud to call home."