Bio

Matt Shelton brings experience and leadership in athletic communications, sports information, and athletic administration to his role as Director of Athletic Communications. With over two decades of experience in collegiate and school athletics, Shelton has built a reputation for strategic planning, media management, and enhancing student-athlete experiences across various levels of competition.

Shelton’s journey in athletics began with coaching roles, but his passion for communication and team development quickly led him into sports administration. He first made his mark as the Sports Information Director at Graceland University (2007-2014), where he spearheaded the redesign and maintenance of the athletics website. Shelton also managed media relations, created media guides for teams, and oversaw the production of Hall of Fame materials. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to engage with both internal and external stakeholders helped strengthen the university's sports profile.

As Associate Athletic Director at Graceland from 2011 to 2016, Shelton further demonstrated his strategic vision by reorganizing department structures to improve productivity and marketing efforts. His work in collaboration with admissions and financial aid was instrumental in developing recruitment programs and increasing student engagement. A key achievement during this period was chairing the Closson Athletic Center Renovation Committee, an effort that modernized the athletic facilities and significantly improved the student-athlete experience.

Shelton's leadership capabilities extended beyond the university as he was appointed to the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Board of Governors, contributing to the oversight and legislative approval processes that governed the conference's operations. His commitment to athletic excellence continued at Southwestern College, where he served as Director of Athletics from 2016-2018. In this role, he oversaw the department’s personnel, budget management, and fundraising activities while serving on key college committees such as the President’s Executive Council. Notably, he led a successful redesign of the college's athletics website and was instrumental in fostering partnerships between the athletic department and local schools.

In addition to his administrative roles, Shelton has also dedicated significant time to coaching, including assistant basketball coaching positions at Graceland University and Winfield Community Schools, where his teams benefited from his experience in both coaching and athletic management.

Shelton holds a Master of Science in Sport Management with a specialization in Intercollegiate Athletic Administration from California University of Pennsylvania. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from Graceland University. His diverse skill set, encompassing communication, marketing, and strategic athletic development, makes him a highly effective leader in athletic communications and management.