Bethany University has a new athletic director, as Sheldon Parkinson has replaced Andrew Snelgrove, who resigned in May.
Parkinson has deep roots with the university. He was an undergraduate student at the school in 1970 and 1971, and both of his parents attended Bethany when the college was still named Glad Tidings.
His wife and many of his siblings attended the school, too.
During his time at Bethany, Parkinson played on the basketball team. He later transferred to San Jose State University, where he graduated.
And Parkinson’s job as athletic director doesn’t mark his first stint in the Bethany athletic department.
From 2000 to 2005, Parkinson was the assistant athletic director for then-Bethany College. Before that, he coached cross country and girls basketball at Monte Vista Christian High School in Watsonville from 1992 to 1998.
He has now returned to Bethany after taking several years off to spend time with family.
Parkinson said his goal for the athletic department this year is to help student athletes have maximize their potential in preparation for a life of ministry and leadership, both during and beyond their competitive careers.
He said he considers himself a “servant leader” on campus and hopes to support and encourage not only the coaches and athletes, but the staff and facility as well.
“As a department, we want to complement and enhance the mission of Bethany University,” he said. “The athletic department functions as an integral component of Bethany University and strives to develop the leadership qualities of the athletes.”
Dianna White is an intern sports reporter. To contact her, e-mail pb******@pr*********.com.
