Adams promoted to vice president for athletics
Reposted from Ferrum College Marketing and Communications Office
FERRUM, Va. -- Ferrum College is proud to announce the promotion of Director of Athletics Cleive Adams '02 to vice president for athletics, recognizing his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the college, its student-athletes, and the continued growth of Panther athletics.
A proud Ferrum College alumnus, former student-athlete, and football coach, Adams has dedicated his career to advancing the mission of his alma mater. Since returning to Ferrum College, he has provided visionary leadership during one of the most significant periods in the history of the athletics program, guiding the institution through its successful transition from NCAA Division III to NCAA Division II membership and Conference Carolinas competition.
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Under Adams' leadership, Ferrum College has strengthened its commitment to academic excellence, competitive success, student development, and compliance while positioning Panther athletics for continued growth at the national level. His leadership has also expanded opportunities for student-athletes, enhanced the student-athlete experience, strengthened external partnerships and fundraising efforts, and fostered a culture built upon integrity, accountability, and service.
Throughout his tenure, Adams has championed the philosophy that athletics serves as an extension of the educational mission of Ferrum College, preparing students not only for competition, but for lives of leadership, service, and success beyond graduation. His leadership has reinforced the college's commitment to developing the whole student while advancing the visibility and reputation of Panther athletics.
"Coach Cleive Adams' appointment as vice president for athletics is a powerful reflection of the Ferrum College story—a proud alumnus returning to serve and lead the institution that helped shape him," said Dr. Mirta M. Martin, president of Ferrum College. "Since returning to the college, Coach Adams has provided outstanding leadership and vision, guiding Panther athletics through the historic transition to NCAA Division II while building a culture centered on excellence, integrity, academic achievement, and student development. His journey from Ferrum College student-athlete to vice president for athletics exemplifies our mission in action—preparing individuals to lead, serve, and make a difference."
"I am deeply honored to continue serving my alma mater and the campus community in the role of vice president for athletics," said Adams. "I recognize the importance of this appointment as we continue the work of redefining and shaping the Ferrum College of the future. I am excited to continue working closely with President Martin, the Senior Leadership Team, and colleagues across campus in a collaborative effort to stay ahead of the curve as we confront the challenges facing small colleges nationally, while remaining firmly committed to the mission and values that make Ferrum special."
As vice president for athletics, Adams will continue to provide strategic leadership for the college's NCAA Division II athletics program, overseeing intercollegiate athletics, student-athlete success, compliance, facilities, fundraising, strategic planning, and community engagement. As a member of the president's senior leadership team, he will continue helping advance the college's strategic priorities and institutional mission.
Adams added, "Athletics is an integral part of the Ferrum College experience and has a tremendous responsibility to positively impact our student-athletes, strengthen our campus culture, support institutional enrollment and retention efforts, and serve as a source of pride and connection for our alumni and surrounding community. I remain deeply committed to leading our athletic department through this important journey and ensuring that athletics continues to serve as a collaborative and impactful partner in advancing the broader mission and future of the college. At the heart of that mission is our responsibility to provide an environment where students can enter with promise, leave with purpose, and carry the torch of Ferrum into their professional and personal lives. I look forward to continuing this journey alongside our campus community as we prepare the next generation of Ferrum graduates to lead, serve, and live out our enduring motto: 'Not Self, But Others.'"
Adams' promotion reflects Ferrum College's continued commitment to developing leaders from within its own community and investing in individuals whose lives and careers embody the transformative power of a Ferrum College education.
