LACEY, Wash. — Saint Martin’s University announces the appointment of Theresa Hanson as the new Interim Director of Athletics. Hanson brings over 25 years of distinguished leadership experience in sports administration, including nearly a decade overseeing Canada’s only NCAA Division II program at Simon Fraser University. She has made a notable impact in enhancing the student-athlete experience and fostering organizational growth through strategic initiatives, facility development, and successful fundraising efforts. She will join the Saint Martin's community on Monday, October 28.
“Theresa Hanson is a visionary leader who understands the importance of supporting our student-athletes in all aspects of their development,” said Saint Martin’s University President Bill Brownsberger, S.T.D. “Her focus on both athletic excellence and student well-being aligns perfectly with our Catholic Benedictine values at Saint Martin’s. I am confident that under her leadership, our student-athletes will continue to grow, thrive, and contribute to the community in meaningful ways.”
Her career highlights include spearheading the construction of Simon Fraser’s $22 million stadium, expanding athletic endowments by 52%, and guiding the athletic program through unprecedented growth, ensuring long-term resources for student-athletes. At Simon Fraser University, she oversaw the support of over 400 student-athletes, implemented best practices to ensure equitable participation, and fostered a culture of teamwork. Her leadership extends beyond her own institutions, with appointments to several high-level committees, including the NCAA Division II Management Council and the NCAA Athletic Directors Association Board.
Reflecting on her new role, Hanson shared, “I am extremely grateful to President Brownsberger for the incredible opportunity and privilege to join Saint Martin’s University. Saint Martin’s long-standing tradition of educating students who exhibit wisdom and compassion in thought and through action is aligned with my beliefs, values, and approach to leading intercollegiate athletics in a positive and meaningful way. I am thrilled for what lies ahead and look forward to engaging with the student-athletes, coaches, staff, and Saints alumni – together we will make a positive difference and win some championships along the way!”
Born and raised in Trail, BC, Hanson is a former standout basketball player and a lifelong sports advocate. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Lewis Clark State College and her master’s degree in sport administration from the United States Sports Academy, where she graduated with honors. She is married to Kevin Hanson, long time, successful basketball coach at The University of British Columbia, and they have one daughter, Jessica, who currently plays professional basketball in Portugal.
Saint Martin’s University is excited to see the future of Saints Athletics under Theresa Hanson’s leadership.
About Saint Martin’s University:
Saint Martin’s University is an independent coeducational university, with undergraduate and graduate offerings, located on a wooded campus of more than 380 acres in Lacey, Washington. Established in 1895 by the Catholic Order of Saint Benedict, the University is one of 13 Benedictine colleges and universities in the United States and Canada, and the only one west of the Rocky Mountains. Saint Martin’s University empowers students to pursue a lifetime of learning and accomplishment through its 31 majors, 11 master’s programs, one doctorate program and sis certificate programs spanning the arts and sciences, business, counseling, education, engineering, nursing, and leadership. Saint Martin’s welcomes more than 1,300 undergraduate students and 250 graduate students from many ethnic and religious backgrounds to its Lacey campus, and more students to its extended campus located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
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