News Summary
The University of Rhode Island announces the appointment of Pat Lyons as the new vice president and director of athletics. A Rhode Island native with over 25 years in intercollegiate athletics, Lyons aims to enhance URI’s athletic programs while prioritizing student-athlete wellness and academic achievement. His extensive experience includes strategic consulting and roles at Seton Hall University and Iona College. Lyons takes over from Thorr Bjorn and is expected to carry forward the momentum in URI’s athletics, fostering a culture of competition and success.
Exciting News from Kingston: Pat Lyons Takes the Helm at URI Athletics!
Kingston, Rhode Island – Big news has landed at the University of Rhode Island (URI) as Pat Lyons has been officially appointed as the new vice president and director of athletics. This exciting announcement was made on a Tuesday, with Lyons set to be introduced formally at a press event the following day. URI fans and alumni can look forward to a new era of athletics under his leadership!
A Local Favorite
What makes this appointment even sweeter? Lyons is a Rhode Island native and has deep roots in the community, making him a familiar face for many. With over 25 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics and university administration, he’s no stranger to the ins and outs of sports programs.
A Proven Track Record
Before stepping into the role at URI, Lyons was working as a strategic consultant for MPM Advantage, where he advised universities and athletics departments around the nation. He has a wealth of experience, having held administrative roles at both Seton Hall University and Iona College, where he served as the director of athletics.
During his time as a student at Iona College, Lyons made his mark not just as a dedicated athlete, playing on both the golf and ice hockey teams, but also as a team leader. He captained the golf team and coached it for several years from 1998 to 2002. Additionally, he led the Iona hockey team in goals per game during the thrilling 1995-96 season. Clearly, a champion both on and off the field!
Goals for Rhode Island’s Athletic Programs
Lyons has a clear vision for URI’s athletic department, which he describes as integral to the university’s growing momentum. He’s committed to elevating the level of competition for URI teams in the Atlantic 10 Conference and CAA Football, aiming for nothing less than championships. His ambition is to earn national recognition for URI’s athletic programs, while simultaneously setting high standards for student-athlete wellness and academic achievement.
Transition at the Top
Lyons steps into his new position following the departure of Thorr Bjorn, who after 18 successful years left the role in November 2025. In the interim, Brittney Miles took charge as the interim athletics director while the search for a permanent replacement was underway.
URI’s Athletics Landscape
The URI athletic department oversees 19 NCAA Division I programs, competing at a high level in both the Atlantic 10 Conference and CAA Football. With Lyons at the helm, the promise of enhancing these programs and fostering a winning culture is a welcomed change for all those involved.
Community Connections
While Lyons’ expected salary has not been disclosed, it’s worth noting that his predecessor received $367,129 in the fiscal year 2026. URI President Marc Parlange praised Lyons for his leadership skills, indicating that he has a firm grasp on the dynamics of competitive Division I athletics as well as the broader mission of research universities.
A Family Legacy
Pat Lyons is not just dedicated to URI for his professional career; he has deep personal ties as well. He is a proud graduate of La Salle Academy in Providence, and his entire family, including his wife and two sisters, are URI graduates. It’s truly heartwarming to see someone who carries such a significant personal connection step into this role!
Looking Ahead
As URI looks toward the future, with Lyons in charge, there’s a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. URI athletics fans can be sure that under his guidance, the programs will receive the attention and dedication they deserve. Cheers to a bright new chapter in URI athletics!
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Pat Lyons Named URI Athletic Director
- News from the States: URI Names Pat Lyons Next Athletic Director
- Turn to 10: URI Names New Athletic Director
- Coastal ABC: URI Names New Athletic Director
- GoRhody: Thorr Bjorn to Step Down as Athletics Director
- Wikipedia: University of Rhode Island
- Google Search: Pat Lyons URI athletics
- Google Scholar: Athletic Director University of Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pat Lyons
- Google News: URI Athletic Director
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