Colorado Mesa University head men’s basketball coach Jim Heaps has been appointed as Assistant Athletic Director for Student Success effective immediately.
In this new administrative role, Heaps — who has led the Mavericks men’s basketball team for 17 seasons — will serve as the principal liaison between the athletic department and CMU’s faculty and academic services.
“As a coach, Jim ensured players knew they were students first and athletes second,” said CMU President Tim Foster. “He has a staunch reputation as someone who demands the best of students both on the court and in the classroom. He’s a wonderful fit for this new position.”
Heaps’ responsibilities will include working one-on-one with student-athletes and faculty members; advising students who have not declared a major on choosing a career path; working with CMU’s Career Services to provide students with more in-depth assistance; collaborating with the Advising Center to assist and advise students with major selection, course selection, and career goals; and ensuring student-athletes progress toward degree requirements. Additionally, he’ll assist with NCAA compliance, event management and fundraising.
“Across the state, CMU is known for its top-quality academic programs. This new position reinforces the university’s commitment to academic rigor and is a wonderful partnership between athletics and academics,” said Tom Spicer, who joined CMU as athletic director in May. “Although I’m the ‘new kid on the block’, I know of Jim’s stellar reputation on the court. I’m confident that his dedication to excellence will extend to this new role,” he added.
Spicer is also ensuring that basketball operations don’t skip a beat and that the team continues to build on Heaps’ record, which includes leading the Mavericks to two Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Championships and four NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament appearances.
“I’m proud to announce that Andy Shantz will take the helm as the interim head men’s basketball coach for the 2013-14 season.” said Spicer.
Shantz, a CMU graduate, has spent 16 seasons with the Mavericks, including ten years as associate head men’s basketball coach and recruiting coordinator.
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