WESTERVILLE, Ohio – The Otterbein University athletic department is excited to announce the hiring of Kelly Bryan as the Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations. Bryan brings over 27 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics to the department.
Bryan joins Otterbein after serving as the head women's soccer coach at Kenyon College from 2003-24, including seven years in athletic administration. While at Kenyon, Bryan served in several leadership capacities from 2017-24, including Assistant Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator, Director of Outdoor Facilities and Game Operations, and Director of Student-Athlete Experience.
"Kelly is an incredible addition to our department with a breadth of experience in both coaching and administration," said Director of Athletics, Dr. Greg Lott. "We are in absolute philosophical alignment regarding sport being an integral component of the educational experience for our student athletes. Not only does Kelly bring a stellar reputation in the field, but we have crossed paths several times over the years, and I have seen firsthand her passion and positive impact on students."
During her time at Kenyon, Bryan helped oversee operations for 22 varsity sports, with responsibilities including compliance, personnel supervision, budget management, facilities and game operations. She supervised and evaluated head coaches, chaired hiring committees, helped restructure coach and student-athlete evaluation systems and contributed to Title IX self-study and gender equity initiatives. Her administrative responsibilities also included coordinating schedules, officials, transportation and event operations for home and away contests and championships.
Bryan led student-athlete leadership programming, supported the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and coordinated department-wide educational initiatives. She also organized National Girls & Women in Sports Day programming and community outreach efforts.
"I am ecstatic to join the Otterbein Athletics family with the dedicated staff and leadership under Dr. Greg Lott," said Bryan. "I look forward to learning from Greg with his passion for the holistic student-athlete experience and partnering with the coaches and staff as a part of the greater campus community. Thank you to the hiring committee for their confidence in my ability and it's time to get to work!"
Bryan's career in intercollegiate athletics extends well beyond her administrative work. She spent 21 years as Kenyon's head women's soccer coach from 2003-24, directing all aspects of the program. She compiled a 227-193-47 career record while leading the program to NCAA Tournament appearances and conference championships.
Prior to her time at Kenyon, Bryan served as head women's soccer coach and assistant sports information director at North Carolina Wesleyan University from 1999-2003. Most recently, Bryan has served as Director of High School Girls for Columbus Force Soccer Club, where she oversees operations for the high school girls' program, including scheduling, staffing, budgeting, parent communication and coach supervision. She also coordinates showcases and facility usage while mentoring coaches and supporting player development and safety.
A graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College, Bryan earned a bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in physical education before receiving a Master of Education in Exercise Technology/Exercise Science from the University of South Alabama. She has also participated in the Women Leaders in Sports Institute, NCAA Women Coaches Academy, NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leadership Training.
Bryan and her husband, Chase, have two children, Colt and Haley. Chase currently serves as the Fire Chief at the Truro Township First Department. Bryan's first day with the Cardinals will be Monday, October 12.
