Washington State has officially named its next full-time athletic director, nearly six months after Anne McCoy’s departure. President Elizabeth Cantwell has promoted interim athletic director Jon Haarlow into the permanent role.
Haarlow has been with Washington State since 2021, serving as senior associate athletic director and chief financial officer. He played a key role in the hiring of new head football coach Kirby Moore, working alongside President Cantwell and the search firm employed by the university.
His fundraising background, combined with his leadership during his time as interim AD, made him a clear choice for the position. According to reports from Jonn Canzano, and echoed by WSU linebacker Keith Brown, Haarlow has been a visible presence around the program, regularly attending early-morning workouts with student-athletes.
Haarlow’s hands-on approach, community engagement, and overall leadership style have made a strong impression across the athletic department.
“I would like to thank President Cantwell for the opportunity to lead Cougar Athletics,” said Haarlow. “Washington State is a special place, with special people. My family and I could not be more thrilled to remain home here in Pullman and continue to serve the Cougar community. It is truly an honor to lead such an outstanding group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff—one I do not take lightly.
“Under President Cantwell’s leadership, Cougar Athletics has made significant progress in a short time, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. Now I’m excited for Coug Nation to join us as we move forward.
“There is still work to be done to provide a championship-level experience for our student-athletes. They are the reason we are here. I’ve experienced firsthand the impact college athletics can have—not only on individuals, but on families and communities. That impact is at the heart of everything we do, and it will continue to guide us moving forward.”
Full press release from Washington State Athletics:
https://wsucougars.com/news/2026/4/7/wsu-athletics-jon-haarlow-to-lead-washington-state-athletics
