On July 17, 2024, after the completion of a national search with dozens of experienced candidates from around the nation, Salem Academy and College President Dr. Summer McGee announced that Michael Williams will join the staff on August 1, 2024, as the new Director of Athletics.
Michael Williams is a transformative leader in collegiate athletics with a proven record of driving innovation, elevating the student-athlete experience, and generating sustainable growth across programs and facilities. Currently serving as a key member of the President’s Cabinet at Salem Academy and College, Williams has played an instrumental role in reshaping the athletics department through strategic vision, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to student success.
At Salem, Williams has led numerous initiatives that modernized and expanded the scope of athletics. He spearheaded departmental restructuring to strengthen equity and leadership, launched new intramural and recreation opportunities, and developed revenue-generating strategies that include online ticketing, concessions, corporate sponsorship packages, and food truck partnerships. He also oversaw significant facility enhancements, including the creation of a beach volleyball complex and upgrades to the fitness center, while introducing new traditions such as media day, student-athlete orientation, expanded athletic banquets, as well as the Hall of Fame, and collaborative community service programs. His leadership has extended into digital transformation as well, with improved video streaming and expanded social media engagement.
Before Salem, Williams served as Associate Athletics Director for Facilities & Operations at John Jay College. In this role, he oversaw all athletic facilities, supervised aquatics and recreation, managed the master calendar and space rentals, and organized camps and clinics for varsity programs. His entrepreneurial approach generated more than $4 million in facility rental revenue, while his direct oversight of Swimming, Cheerleading, Tennis, and Cross Country strengthened program operations. Williams was also instrumental in securing the installation of a new branded gym floor, further enhancing the college’s athletic profile and student-athlete experience.
During Michael’s time as the Athletic Director at The Salisbury School, he directed all aspects of the athletics program, including staffing, scheduling, compliance, budgeting, facility management, and revenue generation. Before transitioning full-time into athletic administration, Michael’s impact was also shaped by nearly two decades as a women’s basketball coach at the collegiate level. His coaching career includes stops at John Jay College, Fairleigh Dickinson University–Florham (where he contributed to the 33-0 season culminating in the 2014 NCAA Division III National Championship), Pratt Institute, Simmons University, City College of New York, and St. Peter’s University. Throughout his coaching tenure, his teams consistently reached postseason play while he simultaneously took on key administrative responsibilities.
Across every role, Williams has demonstrated the ability to strengthen departments, elevate student-athlete support, and create innovative pathways for revenue and community engagement. His vision emphasizes inclusivity, opportunity, and long-term growth, which are qualities that continue to leave a lasting impact on Salem College and every institution he has served.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have found such a strong strategic leader with a growth mindset in Michael," said McGee. "He brings a unique combination of NCAA Division III, women's college athletics, and independent school athletic administration experience to Salem. I look forward to the energy and enthusiasm that he will bring to the Spirits and the Sabers in the years to come."
