Northern Arizona University has announced several promotions within its athletics department. The changes aim to bolster the Lumberjacks as they adapt to a new era in collegiate sports.
Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Uri Farkas, stated, “Our people drive our mission, and these promotions are a direct result of performance, collaboration, and a shared dedication to our core values.” He emphasized that the growth of staff members reflects both personal achievements and departmental progress.
Beth Vechinski has been promoted to Deputy Athletic Director of Internal Operations. An alumna of NAU with an MBA from Northern Arizona and an undergraduate degree from the University of the Pacific, Vechinski will continue her role as Senior Woman Administrator. She has been part of NAU Athletics since 2001.
Alex Lais steps up as Deputy Athletic Director for External Operations. Joining NAU in 2018 from USC, where he was a marketing manager, Lais led initiatives like the “Astrojacks” campaign and increased ticket revenue by 45.7% during his tenure. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in sport management from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in higher education administration from Southeast Missouri State University.
Syed Moinuddin will take on the newly created role of Senior Associate Athletic Director – General Manager. He will manage expanding revenue share and NIL duties related to the House settlement plans. Moinuddin joined NAU in 2013 as Associate Athletic Director for Compliance after working at several other universities.
Other promotions include Andy Bourget as Associate Athletic Director for Facilities and Operations, Samantha Friedbauer as Associate Athletic Director for Fan Experience and Revenue Generation, and Taylor Lais as Associate Athletic Director for Development.
Cindy Santiago will now serve as executive assistant to the vice president while continuing her support for the business office.
Farkas added, “These individuals represent the best of NAU Athletics,” acknowledging their hard work and commitment to student-athletes, the university, and the community.
