Feature Story
Josh Monsen Steps Down; Southern Virginia University Initiates Search For Next Director of Athletics
BUENA VISTA, Va. – After nine years in athletics administration at Southern Virginia University, including the last three as director of athletics, Josh Monsen has announced his departure to accept the role of deputy athletic director at Division ll Colorado Mesa University.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked closely with Josh the last few years,” said James Ballstaedt, Vice President of Athletics and Strategic Growth.
“His commitment, dedication and passion for our student-athletes and coaches is second to none. We are a better institution because of his time here and we couldn’t be happier for him in this new chapter of his life.”
Monsen, a graduate of Utah Valley University, was added to the Southern Virginia staff in 2018 as sports information director after obtaining a master’s degree in sports management and administration from Gonzaga.
He was promoted to assistant director of athletics in 2020 to oversee academics and finance, then served as deputy director for one year before becoming director of athletics. During his tenure in Buena Vista, the Knights have collected dozens of conference championships, over 20 All-American awards, and the university’s first-ever NCAA Championship in 2025.
“Southern Virginia University will always be one of the greatest chapters of my career,” said Monsen. “I’m grateful to the student-athletes, coaches, and staff who made this a place where people are known and challenged to grow. I’m excited to watch what comes next.”
Under his watch, the athletics program has also welcomed a record number of student-athletes on campus, earned several prestigious academic awards, and began projects on a beach volleyball court and state-of-the-art baseball field.
Ballstaedt has opened a national search for Southern Virginia’s next director of athletics.
Logan Davis, formerly an assistant to the athletic director for academics and compliance, has been promoted to associate director of athletics. In addition to their current duties, Debby Baker, Jake Barney, Forrest Sutherland, and Jessica Casperson have been promoted to assistant athletic directors.