The University of New Mexico athletic department has tabbed Steve Kirkland as Director of Athletic Communications.
“I am excited to come to a school like New Mexico, with such a rich basketball tradition,” Kirkland said in a press release. “When I was growing up, I was able to go to a game at The Pit, and experiencing that atmosphere cemented my love of college basketball. I am thankful to Frank and the entire UNM staff for the opportunity to work at a school that has always been a sentimental place for me.”
Kirkland comes to New Mexico after spending nearly two decades in the ACC, including the last five years at Wake Forest in the same role that he assumes with the Lobos’ athletic program, serving as the communications contact for men’s basketball and both golf teams.
Kirkland also spent 13 years at Virginia as an assistant media relations director, covering women’s soccer, men’s tennis and men’s basketball. Over his career, he has managed communications efforts for two NCAA Championship teams (2013 and 2015 Virginia men’s tennis) and six national players of the year, including John Collins of the Atlanta Hawks, 2021 Masters runner-up Will Zalatoris and 2019 Augusta National Women’s Amateur champion Jennifer Kupcho, according to the release.
“Bringing in someone with Steve’s experience, working with high-level basketball and golf programs at Wake Forest and Virginia, is a definite benefit for us,” said Frank Mercogliano, Assistant A.D. for Communications. “He is used to major programs, understanding the needs of both local and national media, and what it’s like to work with a high-profile coach. He’s a perfect match for us.”
A native of Shippensburg, Pa., and 2001 graduate of Penn State University, Kirkland is slated to assume his new post at New Mexico on Aug. 27.