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#10: Elon unveils a new visual identity through the introduction of an updated brand system, centering on the monogram "E" and the Elon wordmark as the primary marks for athletics. The system also presents a redesigned Phoenix mascot, including full-body and head marks, that will serve as supporting elements of the athletics brand. The mascot system features both full-body and head marks, with sport-specific versions of the Phoenix also in development and expected to be introduced at later points throughout the 2026-27 academic year. As part of the rollout, a new physical Phoenix mascot will be introduced on August 25. (link)

#9: Cal State Fullerton officially names Air Force Senior Assoc. AD Shondell Reed as its next AD, starting at the end of the month. President Ronald Rochon: “Shondell understands firsthand the transformative power of a Titan education and the important role of athletics for a campus community, fostering belonging, school spirit, leadership, and lifelong connections. He has a track record of supporting student-athlete success, fostering competitive excellence, and advancing programs focused on holistic student development.” (link)

#8: Check out the latest progress on Penn State’s Beaver Stadium renovation courtesy of Inside the Lions publisher Audrey Snyder. Several photos and videos inside. (link)

#7: The Texas Southern Board of Regents has approved Jackson State AD Ashley Robinson and Seton Hall Men’s Basketball AC Corey Lowery as the Tigers’ next AD and HC, respectively, per Defender Network’s Terrance Harris. (link)

#6: USC has promoted Senior Assoc. AD for Sports Administration Lindsay Jaffe to Deputy AD for Sports Administration. (link)

#5: Marquette freshman volleyball student-athlete Allie Beers is generating significant commercial traction prior to her first collegiate match, as her No. 6 jersey recently ranked among the top 10 sellers nationally on The NIL Store platform. Beers—who is from Wisconsin—acknowledged the viral appeal of the "6 Beers" combination but noted she must carefully navigate university compliance rules prohibiting athletes from endorsing alcohol, tobacco, or gambling businesses. To do so, Beers is coordinating with Marquette Director of NIL Strategy and Athlete Marketing Madi Dunker to develop compliant marketing plans that capitalize on the organic merchandise surge. Volleyball HC Tom Mendoza weighs in: "Especially this town, with the Brewers and everything, I think they embrace it. I think it's good to have some fun with it." (link)

#4: USF Senior Assoc. AD/CFO Ashley Leko indicates she’s exiting the Bulls department. (link)

#3: UAB and AD Mark Ingram “have agreed to part ways.” President Ray Watts: “Mark has played an important role in the growth and evolution of UAB Athletics. During his tenure, UAB Athletics achieved significant milestones, including major facility investments, a successful transition to the American Conference, and continued support for our student-athletes and coaches. We are grateful for Mark's dedication to UAB and the impact he has made over the past 11 years, and we wish him continued success in the years ahead. … Our commitment to athletics has never been stronger. We are excited about the future and focused on supporting our student-athletes, coaches and fans as we continue to build on UAB's momentum. Success increasingly depends on an institution's ability to adapt, innovate, strengthen community partnerships, engage supporters, and compete in a rapidly changing environment. UAB is committed to doing exactly that.” Men’s Basketball HC Andy Kennedy will serve as Interim AD. (link)

#2: Campbell AD Hannah Bazemore departs after four years leading the Fighting Camels and over 16 years at her alma mater to become the Senior Deputy AD/SWA at Florida State. Seminoles AD Michael Alford: “Hannah is an outstanding administrator and a proven leader who will make our department stronger. She understands every part of an athletics operation and has the perspective that comes from leading a Division I department. Just as important, she is a person of high character who builds strong relationships and understands how to bring people together around a common purpose. Hannah is a talented, experienced leader who will positively impact our entire operation.” (link)

#1: Michigan State names Western Michigan AD Dan Bartholomae as the next AD in East Lansing. President Kevin Guskiewicz: “The future of college athletics will belong to institutions that embrace innovation while remaining grounded in their mission. At Michigan State, that mission is clear: to provide our student-athletes with an experience that prepares them to compete at the highest levels, earn a world-class education and become leaders who make a difference long after their playing days are over. Dan shares that commitment and has the experience, vision and values to lead Spartan Athletics into its next era. We are excited to start this next chapter with him as our leader.” HERO Sports’ KC Smurthwaite adds that WMU will be owed $5.1M under the extension agreement Bartholomae signed with the Broncos back in July 2025, with payment due within 60 days. TurnkeyZRG assisted with the process. ESPN's Pete Thamel first reported the hire. (link, link, link)

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