Elizabeth City State University is hoping that a change in direction at the top of its athletic department will invigorate contributions from former athletes and graduates.
That was the objective behind ECSU’s announcement last week to demote then-athletic director Thurlis Little and open a national search for a new athletic leader.
Chancellor Willie Gilchrist said it was a hard decision to remove Little.
“We’re at a point in the life of this university where it was time for more outreach for former athletes,” he said. “Not just spiritual support, but financial.”
He had no negative comments about Little.
“I really don’t want to say anything negative,” Gilchrist said.
The timing of the announcement in early September took a lot of people by surprise, including Little.
Little said he had no indication that his dismissal was coming.
“No … no … no, not at all,” he said.
Gilchrist admitted that the timing of a major decision is always an issue.
“Timing is everything,” the chancellor said. “Could this have waited? Yes it could. But the longer you wait, the further away you get. Do you wait until December? Then you’d be into basketball season. Do you wait until spring? Then you’d be in the middle of recruiting season. Timing is never perfect.”
Angelia Nelson was named interim athletic director.
Like Little, she earned her four-year degree at ECSU. read more…
