Graf to Lead Webster as Interim Director

Merry Graf, Assistant Athletic Director and Head Volleyball Coach, has been named interim Director of Athletics at Webster University.  Graf will assume the position left open by the July 31 departure of longtime director Dr. Tom Hart, who accepted the position of Director of Athletics at Berry College in Rome, Ga.

Graf was hired for the women’s volleyball head coaching position in 2000, coming to Webster from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy.  In her 13 years at Webster, in addition to serving as assistant athletic director and coach, she has assumed the roles of senior women's administrator and compliance coordinator.

"Merry was our first choice for this position. She has provided great leadership as our volleyball coach and senior women's administrator and she is supported by everyone in athletics and student life," said Paul Carney, Assistant Provost for Student Life and Athletics. "I am very appreciative we  have someone like Merry to be able to step in and guide our program as a leader both locally and regionally within the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, but also nationally at the Division III level."

Graf’s volleyball teams have advanced to the NCAA III Championships six different years.  In 2012, the team went 15-1 in the SLIAC, winning its sixth title under Graf, and finishing 24-10 overall.  Graf was named the SLIAC Coach of the Year, her second straight nod and her fourth time receiving the honor.    

The search for a permanent director of Athletics will begin in Spring, 2014.

COURTESY OF WEBSTER UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION OFFICE