July 28, 2005 –
LAFAYETTE – University of Louisiana at Lafayette President Dr. Ray
Authement has named David Walker, the university’s director of auxiliary
services, as interim athletic director it was announced Thursday
afternoon.

Nelson Schexnayder resigned as athletic director Tuesday. An attorney
who served as athletic director since 1993, Schexnayder will remain
employed by the university.

"Both Nelson and I have a high regard for David’s ability and knowledge
of the university and the community. He will operate the Athletic
Department in a very aggressive and effective manner," Authement said.

As director of auxiliary services, Walker has worked with Schexnayder
and Authement on many projects in the Athletic Department. He has also
been involved in athletics-related budget, legal and personnel matters,
as well as facilities development.

Walker will continue to serve as director of auxiliary services.
Authement said Schexnayder will be available to consult with Walker if
needed.

With an interim director in place, Authement will turn his attention to
appointing a search committee that will recommend who should become the
Ragin’ Cajuns’ next athletic director. He is expected to announce the
names of those committee members late next week, at the earliest.

However, the president said the committee will be composed of
representatives of the Faculty Athletic Advisory Committee, alumni,
active supporters of Ragin’ Cajun athletics, UL Lafayette’s student body
and private business, as well someone skilled in the management and
marketing of athletic programs.

Authement said the committee will conduct a nationwide search.

"We intend to hire the most qualified person to lead UL Lafayette’s
athletics program," Authement said. "Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns
successfully compete in NCAA Division 1, the highest level of collegiate
athletic competition. Our outstanding coaches and staff, our talented
student-athletes, and the Lafayette community deserve an athletic
director who can continue to help UL Lafayette’s athletic program reach
its full potential."

The selection process is expected to take about three months after the
search committee is formed.

"We expect to attract outstanding candidates from top athletic
departments across the country," Authement said.