What They're Saying About Josh McCowan

8/4/2026 12:48:00 PM | General

"I am incredibly grateful to President Adam Hasner, Board of Trustee Chairman Piero Bussani and the search committee for the opportunity to serve as the next vice president and director of athletics at Florida Atlantic University. As the collegiate athletics landscape continues to evolve, I'm excited about FAU's trajectory and what can be accomplished together. It is crystal clear that Florida Atlantic has demonstrated both a firm commitment to competitive excellence and exceptional institutional alignment that positions us for success in modern college athletics. My family and I could not be more excited to get to Boca Raton, and we look forward to joining the incredible staff, coaches, student-athletes and supporters in the Owl family!"

Vice President and Director of Athletics Josh McCowan

"I'm thrilled to name Josh McCowan as our next vice president and director of athletics. Florida Atlantic has a proven track record of attracting young, rising leaders, and Josh's experience, energy, and commitment to excellence make him a perfect fit for our dynamic university. I want to thank Michael Graffin for his steady leadership as interim director of athletics throughout this transition, and Board of Trustees Chair Piero Bussani and athletics benefactor Michael Hagerty for the tremendous time and dedication they gave to our national search. The future is bright for athletics at Florida Atlantic, and Jillian and I look forward to welcoming Josh, his wife Ashley, and their children Kacen and Kinsley to Paradise."

FAU President Adam Hasner

"Florida Atlantic's trajectory over the past decade has been unmistakable — from our athletes' record-breaking GPAs to our 15 conference titles — and we look forward to building on that momentum under the leadership of Josh McCowan. Josh's commitment to success will further the university's national profile through academic and athletic excellence and create a great experience for fans and supporters."

FAU Board of Trustees Chair Piero Bussani

"Josh has been a tremendous asset to Mississippi State Athletics, and we appreciate the positive impact he's made on our department the last three years. He's a tireless worker of great character who builds genuine relationships with everyone he works with. He shares the same commitment to student-athletes, coaches and staff that defines great programs. Josh's leadership, professionalism and talent will serve him and Florida Atlantic well. This is a well-earned opportunity for Josh, and we're excited for him, Ashley, Kacen and Kinsley as they begin this new chapter at Florida Atlantic."

Zac Selmon, Director of Athletics, Mississippi State

"Florida Atlantic has made a phenomenal hire in Josh McCowan. I have not only worked closely with him during his time at K-State but also have watched him flourish as a well-rounded administrator who is ready to lead a department. His fundraising acumen is evident, and he understands what it takes to be successful in today's landscape. I am happy for Josh, Ashley, Kacen and Kinsley. FAU got a really good one."

Gene Taylor, Director of Athletics, Kansas State