Veteran administrator Vince Granito will become interim director of athletics at the University of New Orleans next month, following the departure of Derek Morel, who has accepted a position with the Allstate Sugar Bowl. Granito, who is currently associate athletic director for internal operations at New Orleans, has more than three decades of experience in college athletics.
“We’re pleased to move Vince into the role of interim director of athletics,” said President John Nicklow. “He is an experienced and respected administrator who is the ideal professional to take the helm at this time.”
Granito joined the staff at the University of New Orleans in 2017. Prior to that, he was at Tulane University, starting as director of ticket operations and working his way up to an associate athletic director role. In 19 years as an associate AD for the Green Wave, Granito oversaw external affairs and internal affairs, including facilities and event management. During his tenure, Granito assisted in the planning and management of Yulman Stadium, Greer Field and the renovation of Devlin Fieldhouse. In 2013, he earned the Tulane University President’s Staff Excellence Award for best representing high achievement in contributions to the university.
While at Tulane, Granito managed numerous NCAA Championship events. He most recently served as co-director of the New Orleans Host Committee for both the 2012 Men’s Final Four and 2013 Women’s Final Four.
Morel departs the University after six years as director of athletics. During his tenure, he led the effort to transition into the Southland Conference, launched a new Privateers brand identity, directed the construction of a new stadium and the addition of a new video board at Maestri Field, directed the renovation of the basketball support facilities at the ɫɫо Lakefront Arena, and led the addition of beach volleyball to the university’s portfolio of women’s sports. Under his leadership, the Privateers men’s basketball team made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in more than 20 years and the women’s basketball team won its first ever game in the Southland Conference Tournament.
“We appreciate the dedication and leadership that Derek brought to our athletic department,” Nicklow said. “The state of our athletic program is obviously much stronger than when he first arrived on campus. Much of that success is due to his hard work and determination. We look forward to building on our current momentum.”
Granito will officially take over as interim athletic director on Nov. 3, pending approval from the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors. The University will conduct a national search for the permanent position.
