UMaine Names Seth Woodcock Interim Athletics Director

UMaine President Paul Ferguson has named Seth Woodcock as interim athletics director, effective Nov. 18. Woodcock is UMaine’s associate athletic director for development and a senior development officer. He will serve until the new athletics director is in residence.

“Seth brings to this interim appointment a firm understanding and commitment to Black Bear Athletics and a strong relationship with current Black Bear coaches, staff, students and donors,” says President Ferguson. “Seth is well known for his strong work ethic and effective interpersonal skills.”

A national search is underway for the next permanent athletics director, with candidates expected to visit campus later this fall. The search committee, chaired by Robert Strong, professor of finance and UMaine’s NCAA faculty representative, will provide names of recommended candidates to President Ferguson with the intention of filling the position early in 2014.

“I am humbled and honored to accept President Ferguson’s appointment as interim athletics director at the University of Maine — my alma mater,” says Woodcock. “Our coaches, administrators and staff at Maine’s only Division I athletic program will progress as a team in an atmosphere of integrity, trust and hard work. We will continue to develop and produce quality student-athletes and a nationally recognized athletic program for our fans.”

Woodcock was named associate athletic director for development in 2012. Prior to joining UMaine, for a decade he was a major gift officer and campaign officer for Maine Medical Center in Portland. From 2000-02, he was a legislative aide to Maine Senate President Rick Bennett. Woodcock graduated from UMaine in 1999 with a degree in mass communication.

Woodcock, who lives in Windham, will take up residence in Orono during his interim appointment. He has been tasked to address several priority issues in staff and budget management, strategic planning and donor development.

In September, after three years of service, Abbott announced he would return as chief of staff to U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, a position he held from 1997–2009.

Abbott’s UMaine contract ran through December.