Analyzing the performance of anyone with general authority over a large enterprise with multiple, competing priorities is difficult. With John Currie leaving K-State after more than seven years as athletic director, we’ll do our best.
Before assessing Currie, we should attempt to set forth some reasonable criteria by which to judge an athletic director. Among fans, the shareholders in the athletic department, dividends are paid in wins and trophies, which requires attracting coaching staff capable of delivering the same. For the coaches, competitive salaries and facilities are the measuring stick; this requires income from conference affiliation and booster fundraising.