Washington State Names Jon Harrlow as Permanent Athletic Director, Removes Interim Label

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Washington State Cougars helmet sits during a game against the Washington Huskies in the first half of Apple Cup at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images [/caption]

Washington State University athletics has officially named Jon Haarlow as its full-time athletic director, promoting him after he served in the interim role since November.

Haarlow stepped in as the Cougars’ interim AD following the dismissal of former athletic director Anne McCoy. Prior to that, he had been serving as Washington State’s senior associate athletic director and chief financial officer since 2021, where he built a reputation for strong financial leadership and strategic planning.

University President Betsy Cantwell praised Haarlow’s leadership in a statement:

“At Washington State University, we believe in people who step forward, take on challenges, and deliver results that matter. This next chapter is about continuing to prove what’s possible to Coug Nation and beyond.”

During his time as interim AD, Haarlow played a key role in several major initiatives and orchestrated the hires of new head football coach Kirby Moore and head soccer coach Chris Citowicki.

Haarlow also oversaw significant fundraising and facility improvements. He was instrumental in raising more than $10 million for the Football Fan Experience Project and initiated a $3.4 million renovation of the Cougar football locker room, both aimed at enhancing the student-athlete and fan experience.

His promotion comes at a pivotal time for Washington State Cougars athletics, as the department continues to navigate changes in the broader college sports landscape, including conference realignment and evolving financial pressures.

In his own statement, Haarlow emphasized both pride and ambition:

“Washington State is a special place with special people, but there is more work to be done to provide a championship experience for our student-athletes.”

With the official title now in place, Haarlow is expected to continue focusing on athletic success, financial sustainability, and facility upgrades as he leads Washington State athletics into its next chapter transitioning into the new-look, rebuilt Pac-12.