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Northern Illinois University

NIU Office of Public Affairs


News Release

Contact: Melanie Magara, Office of Public Affairs
(815) 753-1681

April 1, 2004

Search firm to assist in finding new A.D.
SHUR NAMED INTERIM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

DeKalb – Former NIU General Counsel George Shur has been appointed to serve as interim Athletic Director while NIU conducts a national search to find a permanent replacement for outgoing AD Cary Groth.

Shur, who served as NIU’s head lawyer for 20 years before retiring last year, also served 20 years on the university’s Athletic Board. His background includes extensive work on personnel matters, student issues, Title IX and NCAA regulations.

"George will be an invaluable help to me and to senior staff in Athletics as we work through this short transition period," said NIU President John Peters.

"He knows the university, knows Athletics and is highly regarded throughout the university for his knowledge, expertise and commitment to NIU."

For his part, Shur says the temporary appointment is "a labor of love."

"I’m very flattered to be the temporary guardian of a very well-run, congenial and honest athletic program," Shur said. "I truly love NIU and I have a deep and abiding respect for what Cary Groth has done here," he said.

Peters said RFPs (request for proposals) have been issued for a search firm to help identify program strengths and attract qualified candidates. Peters said that firm, which he expects to have hired within the next two weeks, will perform an assessment of the current status of NIU’s athletic program, and will assist in recruitment and selection of a new Athletic Director.

"NIU’s athletic program presents a very attractive opportunity, and I have no doubt that we will attract a number of very exciting candidates," Peters said. "We’re on a fast track in this search, and I expect to be able to have a new AD on board here July 1," he added.

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Editor’s Note: Shur may be reached at (815) 758-5502.