Fort Valley State University (FVSU) announces the appointment of Daphnie L. Johnson as its new director of Athletics. Johnson, who has served as interim director since February 2024, brings extensive experience in collegiate athletics administration, compliance and student-athlete development

Under her leadership, FVSU Athletics has seen significant progress, including the revitalization of student-athlete engagement, establishing new strategic partnerships, the launch of the Gridiron Football Classic and key coaching hires including the recent hire of Head Football Coach Marlon Watson.

Her tenure has also driven competitive success, with FVSU securing the 2024 SIAC Men’s Volleyball Championship and multiple SIAC student-athlete and coaching accolades, including Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year Larry Wrather, Softball Coach of the Year Rufus Green, Men’s Volleyball Player of the Year Jaxon Hicks, Softball Player of the Year Mariah Williams, and Relief Pitcher of the Year Taylor Orr.

“Daphnie Johnson’s leadership has already made a tremendous impact on our athletic programs,” said FVSU President Paul Jones, Ph.D. “Her vision and commitment to student-athlete success make her the ideal leader to take FVSU Athletics to new heights.”

Johnson previously served as director of Athletics at Clinton College, senior woman administrator at Elizabeth City State University, and administrative roles at Regent University. She holds a Master’s in Education – Sport and Athletic Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Organizational Management.

"I am honored to continue serving the student-athletes, coaches and supporters of Fort Valley State University in this role," said Johnson. "FVSU Athletics has a legacy of excellence, and I look forward to building on that foundation by fostering stability, growth and championship success."