Jon Jaudon, executive director of athletics, has announced his retirement effective March 31, 2025, closing out a collegiate athletic career spanning more than four decades.
Jaudon joined Dalton State as athletic director in 2016, after serving in previous roles at the University of Florida, University of Texas and Virginia Tech. During his tenure, Dalton State Athletics has compiled an impressive list of accomplishments, including three team national championships and 22 team conference championships. In addition, Jaudon developed the Roadrunner Way, a set of behavioral, action-oriented principles designed to support the personal development and academic goals of Dalton State’s student-athletes. More than 400 student athletes have received national and conference recognition for their academic success under his leadership.
He served as tournament director for the 2024 NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship hosted at the Dalton Golf and Country Club and chaired the NAIA Men’s Soccer Selection Committee from 2021 to 2022.
Beyond Athletics, Jon also served Dalton State at various times in additional capacities, including chief of staff and executive director of external relations.
“I am grateful for Jon’s leadership and service at Dalton State,” President John Fuchko said. “Over the past nine years, he helped guide Roadrunner Athletics to three national championships and numerous accolades while maintaining a focus on the academic and personal success of our student-athletes.”
Ben Rickett, director of golf and men’s golf coach since intercollegiate athletics were reinstated at Dalton State in 2012, has agreed to serve as interim athletic director. In addition to his leadership of Dalton State’s golf program, Rickett has served as assistant athletic director for development.
Details about a search to fill the position on a permanent basis will be announced at a later time.
