Michigan State University Interim President John Engler on Monday formally named Bill Beekman as interim athletic director.

William Beekman, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Michigan State University
MSU interim athletic director Bill Beekman (photo courtesy MSU)
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Beekman had served as temporary acting president the week between Lou Anna Simon's resignation and Engler's appointment.

"Just as the Board of Trustees had confidence in Bill to keep things moving as acting president, I have confidence that he will provide very capable leadership of the athletic department during this time of transition," Engler said in a statement.

Before serving as acting president, Beekman was vice president and secretary for the MSU Board of Trustees. He also previously served as executive director of the MSU Alumni Association.

"I am honored to receive this appointment and look forward to this new challenge," Beekman said in a statement. "This is obviously a new day at MSU and I am pleased to be part of the changes."

Engler said MSU will begin a nationwide search for its next permanent athletic director soon.

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