June 16, 2016
AUBURN, Ala. – Joan Alexander, who spent 10 years as a media official for the PGA TOUR, has been named director of operations for the Auburn men’s and women’s golf teams, head coaches Nick Clinard and Melissa Luellen announced Thursday.
Alexander comes to Auburn from Gainesville, Fla., where she previously worked for Gator IMG Sports Marketing, managing fulfillment for the University of Florida’s athletics rights-holder. She has most recently worked as a health and fitness instructor and as a senior underwriting assistant.
“I would like to welcome Joan and her husband to the Auburn Golf Family,” men’s head coach Nick Clinard said. “We are truly excited to have her on board and part of our team at Auburn. She brings a wealth of knowledge to assist our programs, and we look forward to the future of Auburn Golf.”
“Joan brings an impressive resume,” women’s head coach Melissa Luellen said. “Her background of working in athletic departments and in media services with the PGA TOUR will enhance our programs in many areas. I feel confident Joan will be a great support to Coach Andrew Pratt and myself in allowing us to remain focused on what we love to do – coach and recruit excellent student-athletes to Auburn University.”
She has extensive experience in the golf world, serving as a media official for the PGA TOUR from 1998-2008. While there, she served as a liaison between the media and the Tour players and worked on numerous marketing campaigns with players such as Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia, Adam Scott, Bubba Watson and Davis Love III.
Alexander got her start in college athletics in sports information. She worked in the SID offices at NC State, American and College of Charleston for the eight years prior to beginning work with the PGA TOUR. She is a graduate of the College of Charleston, where she competed on the basketball, tennis and golf teams.
She is married to former University of Florida men’s golf coach Buddy Alexander, who retired in 2014 after 27 years leading the Gators.
Alexander replaces Mary Rob Plunkett, who recently accepted a position as assistant athletic director at the University of North Georgia.