Wednesday, Apr 29, 2026
After more than two decades, Don Harnum will retire at the end of the academic year
After more than 36 years of dedicated service, Rider University Director of Athletics Don Harnum has announced his plans to retire at the end of the academic year. Harnum has guided Rider Athletics through a period of unprecedented growth in facilities, competitive success and student-athlete achievement.
"Serving as Rider’s Director of Athletics has been one of the greatest honors of my career," says Harnum. "I am grateful to the University leadership, our dedicated staff, coaches and, most importantly, our student-athletes, who have made this journey so meaningful. Rider is a truly special place, and I am proud of all we have accomplished together."
Since taking the helm, Harnum has overseen 53 conference championships and 18 regular season titles. Rider student-athletes have also been greatly impacted, having earned 25 All-American and 7 Academic All-American honors and achieving record-setting success in the classroom. The Broncs also captured the MAAC Overall Commissioner’s Cup in 2019-20 and the MAAC Men's Commissioner's Cup in 2023-24 and 2024-25.
A hallmark of his tenure has been his commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience. Through strategic fundraising and leadership, Rider has developed and renovated facilities for all 21 programs, including Alumni Gymnasium, Ben Cohen Field, the basketball practice facility, Sonny Pittaro Baseball Field, Herb and Joan Young Softball Field, the Michael P. Brady Track & Field Complex, the Anderson Family Strength and Conditioning Center, the Canastra Family Athletics Hall of Fame, Coppola Pool and the Gary Taylor Wrestling Center.
"Don’s vision, integrity and commitment to student-athletes have elevated Rider Athletics in every way — competitively, academically and within the broader community," says Rider University President John R. Loyack, CPA, MBA.
Under Harnum’s leadership, Rider Athletics expanded its visibility through partnerships with ESPN3 and ESPN+, while also strengthening alumni engagement, corporate sponsorships and overall fundraising efforts. His emphasis on leadership development led to the creation of The Bronc Pledge and the Captains Leadership Principles and increased mental health resources for student-athletes.
Harnum’s impact extends beyond Rider, having served in leadership roles within the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, including chairing multiple committees during periods of significant conference transition.
Before becoming Athletic Director, Harnum served as Rider’s head men’s basketball coach, leading the Broncs to a National Invitation Tournament (NIT) appearance, two regular season conference titles, and earning MAAC Coach of the Year honors. He also maintained a 100 percent graduation rate among his senior student-athletes, reflecting a lifelong commitment to academic success.
"I’ve always believed that success is measured not just in wins, but in the growth and development of our student-athletes," Harnum says. "Seeing them succeed during their time at Rider and in life beyond Rider has been the most rewarding part of this role."