Jacksonville, Fla. — August 26, 2025 — Edward Waters University (EWU) today announced a leadership transition in its Department of Intercollegiate Athletics.

President and CEO Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. has accepted the resignation of Dr. Ivana M. Rich-Leitner, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, effective September 1, 2025. Dr. Rich, who joined EWU in October 2022, has served as a member of the university's executive leadership team for nearly three years. The university thanks Dr. Rich-Leitner for her service and extends best wishes for her future endeavors.

Effective immediately, Ms. Ashley Conner, Deputy Athletics Director, and Mr. Derrick Burroughs, the immediate past Athletics Director of Lane College, will serve as Interim Co-Vice Presidents for Intercollegiate Athletics.

The university will launch a national search immediately to identify the next Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics to continue advancing the growth, success, and competitiveness of Florida's only NCAA Division II HBCU athletics program.

Edward Waters University remains committed to fostering excellence, integrity, and student-athlete success across all athletic programs while continuing to build on the strong foundation established over the past several years.