Dexter Irvin
Director of Athletics
Dexter Irvin was named Director of Athletics at the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, effective September 1, 2009.
"To be a Vulcan, to be 'Hilo,’ is very significant in my life and the lives of my family," Irvin said. "I am looking forward to a great reunion with our Hilo community and our Athletic Department.
"I am appreciative of the job that Dr. Hong has done to stabilize the Athletic Department and the support and trust that she and the Chancellor have displayed in me and my abilities.”
Irvin spent the past decade as the Director of Athletics of fellow Pacific West Conference member Dixie State College in St. George, Utah. Under his direction, Dixie State athletics won four NJCAA national titles, including two in women’s soccer (2000, 2003), men’s basketball (2002) and baseball (2004), along with an NJCAA national football runner-up finish in 2003. In addition, he increased fundraising and contributions by over $500,000 per year.
Irvin also oversaw Dixie State’s successful transition from junior college competition to full NCAA Division II membership, which included full postseason championship eligibility in the 2008-09 season, two years ahead of its scheduled four-year provisional status.
Irvin's experience includes coaching women's basketball at Dixie State College (2001-05), Western New Mexico University (1988-93), Clarendon College (1985-88) and Utah Valley Community College (1978-79). In addition, Irvin was an athletic director for the Utah County Boys Club (1980) and Kirtland Central High School in New Mexico (1995-99).
As UH Hilo Director of Athletics, Irvin will oversee the University's 13 NCAA Division II athletic programs.
"Coming to UH Hilo is one of the smartest, best moves I have made in my career," Irvin said. "I feel like the Indiana Jones of Athletics and that I am in this great adventure."
Dexter and his wife, Connie, have six children and 10 grand children.
