About the Director of Athletics and Student Wellness

Kellen Winslow was introduced as the seventh Director of Athletics for Central State University by President John W. Garland on August 14, 2008. In addition to his duties as Athletics Director he will also oversee a new program on campus concerning student wellness.

 A native of East St. Louis, Ill., Winslow earned consensus all American honors during his senior year while playing for the University of Missouri Tigers. Winslow played nine seasons for the San Diego Chargers and is often referred to as the player who redefined the tight end position. Kellen was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

As Director of Athletics and Student Wellness, Winslow will manage and direct the University’s athletic programs, the athletic staff, and develop and implement fundraising and marketing strategies for Central State athletics. In addition, Winslow will create health intervention programs designed to foster the adoption of a more active and healthy lifestyle among the University’s student population.

“I am honored to join the Central State University administration. I see the opportunity to develop an innovative wellness program and lead the Athletic Department as one mission with similar opportunities and goals,” said the new athletic director. “Awareness, fundraising and the building of facilities are crucial for either to be successful. We are now a part of
the NCAA Division II and I will work to solidify our standing. In athletics we will focus on identifying resources, recruitment, retention and the health of our athletes and, of course, graduating productive students.”


John Garland President of Central State University said, “I am confident that Kellen Winslow will provide the leadership and talent to help the University and establish a greater athletic presence locally, regionally and nationally. He has shown us he has a vision for great leadership. I am especially gratified that Mr. Winslow shares my vision that student wellness is an important element in a Central State University education. I have believed in this for quite some time. Now we have Mr. Winslow as our champion for this endeavor.”

Kellen Winslow earned a bachelor’s degree in educational studies, from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and a Juris Doctorate, from the University of San Diego School of Law. Most recently, Winslow was the Director of New Business Development and Sponsorship for Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Lake Buena Vista, FL.