UW-Platteville announces Knipe as next athletic director

PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Platteville announces Michael Knipe as the new athletic director. He will oversee the 16 NCAA Division III athletic programs as well as campus recreation. 

"We are very excited to welcome Mike to UW-Platteville," said Chancellor Tammy Evetovich. "He brings a lot of energy, as well as a deep understanding of NCAA DIII athletics and a passion for what makes UW-Platteville unique. He is an excellent fit for our university and will further the exceptional work happening in Athletics." 

Knipe brings more than a decade of experience within both NCAA Division II and Division III athletic programs. He spent the past four years in leadership roles, including serving as director of athletics at North Central University, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and deputy director of athletics at Fort Lewis College, in Durango, Colorado. 

He brings vast experience in fundraising, athletic communications, operations and strategic planning. 

"This is such a momentous time to join UW-Platteville Athletics as we remain focused on graduating champions in the classroom, competition and community," said Knipe. "I am passionate about the mission of UW-Platteville and the community in which it resides and believe that the incredible foundation laid before us has prepared our campus for unparalleled success in these areas. I am thankful to Chancellor Evetovich and the entire search committee for allowing me the opportunity to lead our Pioneers. I would also like to publicly acknowledge my predecessor, Dr. Kristina Navarro-Krupka. Dr. Navarro-Krupka left a legacy that many can only dream of and very few ever achieve. She and her family will always be beloved members of the Pioneer community." 

Knipe earned a Bachelor of Science in sports management from North Central University. 

"My family and I look forward to engraining ourselves within the UW-Platteville campus community and wonderful community members of Platteville in the years ahead," said Knipe. "It is an honor to serve alongside so many incredible people as we continue to embrace excellence in all that we do. I am excited to join the incredible team assembled as we continue to swing the axe!" 

Knipe will officially begin his new duties on May 13. Paul Erickson will continue to serve as the interim athletic director until that time.

Written by: Alison Parkins, Communications Director, UW-Platteville, parkinsal@uwplatt.edu