LIBERTY, Mo. – Chris McCabe has announced that he will step down from his role as Vice President for Athletics, effective June 30. He will transition to an Associate Athletics Director position with focus on external relations and special projects while continuing to lead the men's basketball program. The College will conduct a national search for the next Vice President for Athletics.
This change will allow McCabe to recenter his efforts on Jewell's men's basketball program, which has been one of the top-3 winningest programs in the Great Lakes Valley Conference over the last four seasons, including a 2024 GLVC Championship, while providing continuity and support to the next leader of Cardinal Athletics.
"Chris has done a fantastic job holding two important roles at the College. While I understand his desire to focus on coaching and his student -athletes, his successor will have big shoes to fill," said William Jewell President Dr. Drew Van Horn. "I am excited that he will remain in leadership for the Athletics Department. He has accomplished so much on and off the court, and we are proud to have him as part of the Jewell family."
Under McCabe's leadership since 2023, the Athletics Department has seen an increase in support and visibility on campus with the Athletics Director position elevated to a Vice Presidency and a position as part of the College's Cabinet. Additionally, the creation of the Athletics Taskforce as part of the Board of Trustees has allowed for an increase in advocacy, transparency, and visibility of the accomplishments and needs of student-athletes, coaches, and staff while the Facilities & Grounds Taskforce will ensure the inclusion of athletics facilities in long term capital planning. Over the last two-plus years, Cardinals have seen 12 student-athletes earn All-America honors, the most of any similar span during the NCAA era, with three Academic All-Americans. Additionally, under his direction Jewell has hired 11 head coaches and overseen the promotion of three support staff members.
Now in his seventh season as head coach of the men's basketball program McCabe has won nearly 100 games, including 75 of those in the last five years, with 13 All-GLVC performers, and the program's first appearance in the NCAA Tournament in 2024.
"I'm thankful for the people who have supported me throughout this process—most especially my wife and daughter—along with our student-athletes, my coaching colleagues, the athletic and campus administration, and the many alumni and supporters who pour into our Athletics Department," said McCabe. "William Jewell has given me the opportunity to grow as a coach and leader, and I'm proud of what we've built together. This transition allows me to refocus my energy on my family and our men's basketball program, while continuing to support Cardinal Athletics in meaningful ways. I'm grateful for the trust and relationships that make this possible and excited to continue serving a community I care about immensely."
