UNK- University of Nebraska at Kearney Chancellor Gladys Styles Johnston said the outpouring of love, affection, and respect from both the Kearney and the University communities for Mike Sumpter has led to an amazing turnabout the past few days.
“It has been difficult for Mike and his family,” said Chancellor Johnston. “Mike is committed to the program at UNK and deeply appreciates the support that he is receiving from all concerned. As a result, Mike has agreed to remain at UNK as Director of Athletics. We are all very pleased and relieved that he has decided to stay. He and UNK are a perfect match. His vision, leadership, and management style are in sync and totally compatible with the philosophy of our institution and academic programs. UNK has won five consecutive Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference All-Sports Trophies, two of them under Mike’s leadership. I expect that Mike will continue the great tradition of winning at UNK.”
Mike Sumpter added, “My family and I would like to thank the Chancellor for her patience, understanding, and leadership through this very trying time. Our feelings for UNK and the Kearney community overshadowed this fantastic offer. The opportunity to be the Athletic Director at Southern Utah University was very compelling. It is a fine institution but I have come to realize that Kearney is home.”
