FRESNO, Calif. – Fresno State Athletics is evolving and leading boldly into the future. On Monday, Director of Athletics Garrett Klassy announced a strategic restructuring of the department's leadership model, including a series of promotions and the formation of two new collaborative groups: the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and the Senior Leadership Team (SLT).
These changes are designed to streamline operations, enhance communication, and ensure representation from every key area of the department as Fresno State prepares for the rapidly changing landscape of college athletics.
"We are building a leadership model that reflects who we are and where we're headed," Klassy said. "This is about empowering great people, encouraging collaboration, and creating a structure that allows us to move faster and think bigger."
Executive Leadership Team (ELT):
Garrett Klassy – Director of Athletics
Rob Acunto – Deputy Athletic Director
Mike Wickham – Senior Associate AD for Strategy, Innovation & Business Operations
Stefany Valentino – Senior Associate AD for Compliance (Senior Woman Administrator)
Tyler Mariucci – Senior Associate AD for Development
Mya Felder – Executive Administrative Specialist (Chief of Staff)
Felder, a Fresno native who joined the department in July, will play a vital role in advancing high-level initiatives, aligning department priorities, and driving operational efficiency. She brings a unique background as a former student-athlete and a rising voice in athletic administration.
Senior Leadership Team (SLT):
Joining the ELT in Fresno State's new Senior Leadership Team are:
Kelli Eberlien – Associate AD for Sports Medicine
Holly Elsbernd – Associate AD for Student-Athlete Services (new role)
Alex Gutierrez – Assistant AD for Events & Facilities
Savannah Stoeckle – Associate AD for Strategic Communications (new role)
Andy Ward – Associate AD for Sports Performance (new role)
Ben Hynds – Assistant AD for Football
Aaron Johnson – Assistant AD for Ticket Sales & Service (new role)
Jake Mastro – Assistant AD for Marketing & Fan Engagement (new role)
Taylor Wright – Assistant AD for Student-Athlete Development (new role)
Ralston Compton – Assistant AD for Development (new role)
Additional Promotions:
Several key staff members have also received promotions reflecting their continued impact and leadership:
Brad Blackstone – Assistant AD for Bulldog Vision
Andrew Worth – Assistant AD for Creative Services
Travis Hewitt – Associate AD for Equipment
Rich Hodgkinson – Assistant AD for Equipment, Olympic Sports
Ashley Macias – Director of Student-Athlete Services
This restructuring represents more than titles—it's a commitment to culture, communication, and competitive excellence. Fresno State Athletics is building something special, and these individuals will help lead the charge.