Gorsline to succeed Ladd as Trinity director of athletics

Michael Gorsline has been selected as the new director of athletics at Trinity International University, where he has served for the past four years in the area of alumni and community relations.

A 2007 Trinity College graduate in communications, Gorsline joins the Trojans' staff following eight years of work in higher education. Since moving into the director of alumni relations role in 2015, Gorsline has planned major events, including alumni functions and national conferences that attracted hundreds of visitors.

"We are excited about the appointment of Michael Gorsline as the next Director of Athletics at Trinity," President David S. Dockery said. "Michael will bring to this important role on our campus a love for the University, a commitment to Trinity's mission, a knowledge of sports administration, an understanding of as well as an appreciation of the value of college athletics, and a deep dedication to Trinity students."

Gorsline was a member of the baseball team during his time as a Trinity student. He has experience as a radio broadcaster, covering Notre Dame football for Sporting News Radio in Northbrook. He also has served on the Trinity College admissions staff, recruiting high school seniors. Gorsline earned a master's degree in recreation, sport, and tourism from the University of Illinois in Champaign.

"I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity," Gorsline said. "It will be a pleasure to support our wonderful student-athletes, coaches, and entire athletic department."

Gorsline, who will be serving as director of athletics and alumni services for Trinity College, will begin working with the current director of athletics Tony Ladd, who announced this week he will be stepping down in June after serving at Trinity for four years.

Ladd's leadership has resulted in consistent improvement for all 10 Trinity athletic programs. He has established a foundation for the future of Trinity athletics, for continued success on the field, in the classroom, and in the spiritual lives of both student-athletes and coaches.

"As we look forward to Michael assuming his new responsibilities in athletics, we thank God for the legacy Dr. Ladd leaves behind," Senior Vice President for University Services and Strategic Initiatives Rich Grimm said. "We are truly grateful for Tony's faithful service, and pray God's blessings on him and his family in the days ahead."

Ladd has served for more than 40 years in the field of collegiate athletics. In addition to his work at Trinity, he was director of athletics at Wheaton College for 28 years. He also served in teaching or coaching capacities at Taylor, Malone College, Ohio State, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.