COLUMBUS — Mississippi University for Women finally has a permanent athletic director, and the Owls didn’t need to look far to find him.

Interim athletic director Buddy Foster, who had been serving in that position since September 2023, was named permanent AD on Wednesday morning, the school announced.

“I am fully invested in the mission of the department and the University,” Foster said in Wednesday’s press release. “While there have been many great accomplishments in The W’s athletics history, I believe our best is still ahead of us. I embrace the chance to lead Owls’ Athletics to that bright future.” 

Foster has been working in an administrative position with the university since July 2023 after stepping down as head softball coach for the Owls following his third season at the helm.

He was previously the interim athletic director in 2021, and before being elevated to the same position last year, he served as assistant athletic director.

“Buddy’s experience in athletics administration and commitment to our Division III model will serve our student-athletes and campus well,” Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Jess Harpole said in Wednesday’s press release. “I anticipate growth in our community relationships through his leadership.”

While serving as head coach of Owls softball, Foster compiled a 60-54 record over his three seasons, helping The W reach the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) Small College World Series in all three seasons.

In 2023, the Owls reached the USCAA SCWS finals, losing to Penn State Brandywine in the championship series. That season saw MUW win 26 games, its most in the modern era of Owls athletics.

With his AD job now permanent, he’ll continue to help MUW as it continues its transition to full Division III membership in the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC), something that began prior to the 2023-24 athletic calendar.

“He brings a tremendous amount of previous experience and overall knowledge concerning athletics – and specifically the SLIAC – into his new position,” SLIAC Commissioner Dick Kaiser said in Wednesday’s press release. “I believe Buddy is a great fit at The W, and I look forward to continually working with him in his new position.”