UConn Announces Contract Extension for Director of Track & Field Beth Alford-Sullivan

UConn Announces Contract Extension for Director of Track & Field Beth Alford-Sullivan

 

STORRS, Conn. – The University of Connecticut has announced a multi-year contract extension for Beth Alford-Sullivan, Director of Track & Field and Cross Country, reinforcing its commitment to the continued growth and success of the program under her leadership.

Alford-Sullivan, who joined the Huskies in 2022, has revitalized UConn’s track and field program in her short time at the helm. The contract extension, which was formally approved earlier this week, secures her role with the university through the 2027 season.

“We are thrilled to extend Beth’s tenure at UConn,” said Director of Athletics David Benedict. “In just a few years, she has made a tremendous impact on our student-athletes and brought a high level of excellence to our track and field and cross country programs. Her leadership, vision, and dedication align perfectly with the future we envision for Husky Athletics.”

Under Alford-Sullivan’s guidance, the Huskies have experienced remarkable competitive success. The women’s track and field team captured back-to-back Big East Championships in 2023 and 2024, while several athletes earned All-American honors in both indoor and outdoor events. The men’s team has also made significant strides, with improved finishes at conference and national levels, showing marked progress in recruitment and performance.

“It’s truly an honor to continue leading this program,” said Alford-Sullivan. “I’m grateful to the administration for their confidence and support, and I’m incredibly proud of what our student-athletes and coaching staff have accomplished so far. UConn has a rich athletic tradition, and I’m excited to keep building on that foundation.”

Alford-Sullivan brought a wealth of experience to UConn, having served as head coach at Penn State and Tennessee, where she led teams to numerous NCAA and conference titles. Her coaching career spans over three decades, during which she has developed Olympians, national champions, and countless all-conference performers. Her reputation as a leader in collegiate track and field continues to grow, and UConn is reaping the benefits of her expertise.

Beyond competition, Alford-Sullivan has been credited with fostering a culture of academic excellence and personal growth within the program. The track and field teams have consistently posted some of the highest GPA marks among UConn athletic programs, and community involvement initiatives have expanded under her leadership.

As the Huskies look ahead to the 2025 season, expectations are high. Several returning athletes are poised to make national headlines, and the incoming recruiting class has been touted as one of the strongest in recent years.

“Beth has not only elevated our program’s performance but also set a standard for integrity and leadership,” Benedict added. “We look forward to continued success with her guiding the way.”

The contract extension solidifies Alford-Sullivan’s role as a cornerstone of UConn’s athletic leadership, with the university aiming to cement its place among the elite programs in NCAA track and field.