BISMARCK, ND — The University of Mary is proud to announce the promotion of Marcus Wagner to director of Intercollegiate Athletics. He becomes only the fifth athletic director in the school's 65-year history. Wagner, known for his commitment to the University's "Greatness through Virtue" mission, will oversee the Marauders' athletic programs and mission, succeeding Cooper Jones, who will be taking on a new role with the University of Memphis as deputy athletics director and chief revenue officer.
 

Wagner, a Killdeer, ND, native and former athletic director for Shiloh Christian School in Bismarck, has quickly risen through the ranks at the University of Mary, proving his dedication to the institution's mission and the development of scholar-athletes. Since joining the university, he has served as director of Workforce Development and most recently as associate director of Intercollegiate Athletics for Mission. Wagner will oversee 19 sports under the governance of both the NCAA and the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA), with responsibilities commencing on Monday, November 25.
 
Reflecting on his new role, Wagner expressed both humility and enthusiasm: "I am deeply humbled and honored by the trust the University of Mary has placed in me to carry forward the proud tradition of Marauders athletics. 'Greatness through Virtue' is not just a motto; it's a transformative philosophy that guides our entire department and plays a crucial role in shaping our scholar-athletes. I look forward to fostering deeper connections with our Marauders alumni and the Bismarck-Mandan community as we continue to build a program that reflects our values and strives for excellence."
 
Wagner's promotion aligns closely with the university's ambitious Vision 2030 Capital Campaign, which is currently in Phase II and will include a spectacular new Athletics Complex and Research and Performance Center. As a leader, Wagner has played an instrumental role in fundraising efforts, helping to secure record-level contributions for the Marauders Armada in recent years. His colleagues and mentors alike have noted his exceptional capabilities in helping implement the Greatness through Virtue Strategic Plan, a program inspired by Saint Pope John Paul II's belief in the formative power of sport, not merely to win but to develop character and friendships.
 
Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff Jerome Richter has witnessed Wagner's dedication, vision, and attention to detail firsthand. "Marcus embodies the qualities of a great leader and servant, which makes him a perfect fit for this position," said Richter. "His dedication to our mission has earned him the admiration of our coaches, athletes, and the entire community. With Marcus in this leadership role, we are excited about the future of Marauders athletics as we continue to build a program grounded in both athletic excellence and virtuous character."
 
During his tenure at the University of Mary, Wagner has gained respect throughout the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) and from his own colleagues for his efforts in helping advance the athletics program. Most recently, Marauders athletics finished third in the NSIC All-Sport Standings — a reflection of the overall strength and success of each athletic program in the conference. Wagner earned his master's degree in education from the University of Mary in 2021. As both an educator and a mentor, he helped develop the curriculum for teaching Greatness through Virtue, instilling in athletes the values of resilience, humility, and magnanimity. Under his leadership, the university's athletics department has become a beacon for student-athletes seeking to pursue their passions in a faith-based environment. Wagner has worked closely with the women's volleyball and the swim and dive teams along with the men's wrestling and golf teams.
 
The University of Mary's Athletics Chaplain, Father Jarad Wolf, attested to Wagner's strong impact on Marauders athletics. "From the very first day of joining Marauders Athletics, Marcus has made a profound impact on our life and mission," Wolf said. "His prayer and wisdom have measurably enhanced the implementation of Greatness through Virtue in our programs. His faithfulness and dedication have been felt by athletes and coaches alike, earning our trust and respect. His skill set in service to our athletic programs, mission, and people is second to none. We are honored and grateful God has provided Marcus to lead our department."
 
Wagner's predecessor, Cooper Jones, who leaves a significant mark of leadership and vision at the University of Mary, expressed gratitude for his time at the university and confidence in Wagner's abilities. "This is an extremely hard decision to make," Jones said. "I leave this place — the University of Mary — with great affection and love for its people. This new position in Memphis is an opportunity to move closer to our family and where I grew up. I am proud of what we've been able to accomplish. Much of which couldn't have been done without the hard work of Marcus Wagner and his leadership role alongside me and our incredible staff."
 
In his new position, Jones will manage donor relations, events, and external relations as well as oversee Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives at the University of Memphis.
 
Wagner's appointment as director of Intercollegiate Athletics is a significant step in furthering the University of Mary's vision for athletics — following in the footsteps of fellow ADs Jones, Dale Lennon, Roger Thomas, and Al Bortke. As a respected leader, he brings the right experience, a commitment to virtue, and a heart for service. His promotion signals the university's dedication to building a winning program that upholds the true purpose of sports: the cultivation of virtue and the formation of athletes to become who they were made to be.
 
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