Alcorn State names E. D’Wayne Robinson as new director of athletics
Published 4:33 pm Wednesday, September 11, 2024
LORMAN — Alcorn State University announced Wednesday that it has appointed E. D’Wayne Robinson as its new director of intercollegiate athletics, effective Sept. 15.
Robinson is an Alcorn State alum who previously served as the university’s deputy associate athletic director. He will replace Robert Raines, who has been Alcorn’s interim athletics director since June 2023.
“Robinson has a deep history with the university as an alumnus, and his parents attended the university. I know he will hit the ground running with new ideas, innovation, and growth for our athletics programs,” Alcorn State president Dr. Tracy M. Cook said in a statement.
Cook also thanked Raines for his time leading the university’s athletics department.
“In addition, I want to express my gratitude to AD Robert Raines for his 15 months of service in this role,” Cook said. “We appreciate the continued support of our alumni and fans as we move to higher heights.”
Robinson holds a Master of Science in education from Alcorn State and a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Tougaloo College. He is also a graduate of the NCAA Leadership Institute and a recognized expert in NCAA compliance.
In addition to his role as Alcorn’s deputy associate athletic director, Robinson previously worked at Florida A&M, Alabama A&M, Coppin State, Alabama State, Florida State, Clark Atlanta University and Cheyney University.
Robinson’s previous duties at Alcorn included oversight of NCAA compliance, strategic planning and program development. The 58-year-old was hired for that job in November 2023.
At FAMU, Robinson was interim director of athletics in 2015. He successfully reorganized the compliance structure, secured a $675,000 grant from the NCAA for academic support, and led the creation of the first-ever HBCU Legacy Weekend Celebration in partnership with the City of Boston and the Boston Red Sox.
During his time at Alabama A&M, Robinson served as senior associate athletic director for compliance from 2019-23. He was also Alabama A&M’s head golf coach.
He began his athletics career at Alcorn in 1999 as a golf coach and assistant director of athletics.
“I am honored and excited to lead this historic and dynamic athletic program,” Robinson said in a statement. “I’d like to thank President Cook and the selection committee for this great opportunity. Alcorn State has a rich tradition of excellence, both on and off the field, and I am committed to building on that legacy by focusing on the success of our student-athletes, enhancing the fan experience, and fostering deeper connections with our alumni and community. Together, we will elevate Braves athletics to new heights and continue to foster a culture of excellence that builds ‘Champions and Scholars.’”