Washington State has officially named its next full-time athletic director, nearly six months after the departure of Anne McCoy. President Elizabeth Cantwell has promoted interim athletic director Jon Haarlow to the permanent position.
Haarlow has been at Washington State since 2021, serving as senior associate athletic director and chief financial officer. He played a key role in the hiring of new football coach Kirby Moore, working alongside President Cantwell and the search firm employed by the university.
Advertisement
His fundraising experience, combined with his leadership during his tenure as interim AD, made him a clear choice for the position. According to reports from Jonn Canzano, and echoed by WSU linebacker Keith Brown, Haarlow has been a visible presence throughout the program, regularly attending morning workouts with student-athletes.
Haarlow’s hands-on approach, community commitment and overall leadership style have made a strong impression throughout the athletic department.
“I would like to thank President Cantwell for the opportunity to lead Cougar Athletics,” Haarlow said. “Washington State is a special place, with special people. My family and I could not be more excited to remain home here in Pullman and continue to serve the Cougar community. It is truly an honor to lead such an outstanding group of student-athletes, coaches and staff, something I do not take lightly.
“Under President Cantwell’s leadership, Cougar Athletics has made significant strides in a short time and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. I am now excited for Coug Nation to join us as we move forward.
Advertisement
“There is still work to be done to provide a championship-level experience for our student-athletes. They are the reason we are here. I have experienced firsthand the impact that college athletics can have, not only on individuals, but also on families and communities. That impact is at the center of everything we do and will continue to guide us in the future.”
Full press release from Washington State Athletics:
https://wsucougars.com/news/2026/4/7/wsu-athletics-jon-haarlow-to-lead-washington-state-athletics