**Michael Kelly Appointed as New Athletic Director at the Naval Academy**

ANNAPOLIS, Md.—Michael Kelly has been named the President of the Naval Academy Athletic Association and the Director of Athletics at the United States Naval Academy, assuming the role from Chet Gladchuk. Expressing his excitement, Kelly stated, “I am honored and humbled to lead the Naval Academy Athletic Association and serve as the Athletics Director at this esteemed institution."

Kelly has deep ties to the Naval Academy, as his father graduated from there in 1967, and he spent a part of his childhood in Annapolis. He emphasized the significance of his new role, seeing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to support those who have dedicated themselves to serving the nation. "Together, we will build on the extraordinary foundation laid by Chet and ensure that Navy Athletics continues to represent excellence—in competition, in the classroom, and beyond. Go Navy! Beat Army!" Kelly remarked.

Vice Adm. Yvette M. Davids, Superintendent of the Naval Academy, praised Kelly's appointment, highlighting past accomplishments under Gladchuk's leadership, such as the expansion of Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and the addition of Wesley Brown Field House and the Brigade Sports Complex. Gladchuk also led the Naval Academy to boast 36 varsity sports programs, providing a robust foundation for midshipman athletics.

Before joining the Naval Academy, Kelly served as Vice President for Athletics at the University of South Florida (USF) for seven years. Under his leadership, USF’s department budget nearly doubled to $100 million, accompanied by securing $100 million in philanthropic gifts. He spearheaded significant projects like the $340 million on-campus football stadium and a $22 million indoor performance facility, among other developments. Kelly also added new varsity sports, including women's lacrosse and beach volleyball, and led USF teams to numerous championships across various sports.

Throughout his career, Kelly held prestigious roles, including Chief Operating Officer of the College Football Playoff and Senior Associate Commissioner at the Atlantic Coast Conference. He also played pivotal roles in Super Bowl host committees across several cities and directed the Tampa Bay Final Four Organizing Committee.

Kelly has made substantial contributions to USF student-athlete welfare by enhancing nutrition programs, expanding sports psychology resources, and founding the Stampede for Women initiative to support female athletes. Under his guidance, USF student-athletes maintained a 3.0 GPA or higher for 21 consecutive semesters and achieved national recognition for their efforts.

Kelly earned his bachelor's degree from Wake Forest University and a master's in sports administration from St. Thomas University, where he was Class President. He also received an honorary doctorate from St. Thomas in May 2023 and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at USF. Michael and his wife, Lisa, have two daughters, Cara and Seana.

As Kelly transitions into his new role at the Naval Academy, he brings with him an impressive record of achievements and a clear vision for the future, poised to elevate Navy Athletics to new heights.