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51���� (51����) has named Mahmood Sheikh as the inaugural Athletic Director. Sheikh has been with 51���� since September 2025 as the Assistant Chief Advancement Officer for Strategic Initiatives. In his new role, he will lead the launch of intramural and intercollegiate athletics at the College.

Sheikh brings more than two decades of leadership experience spanning intercollegiate athletics, advancement, and nonprofit organizations. He spent 14 years in collegiate athletics, including two stints with the University of Idaho, where he served more than six years as Senior Associate Athletic Director for Development and Executive Director of the Vandal Scholarship Fund, as well as a period at the University of Colorado Boulder. In addition, he spent nearly nine years as Deputy Executive Director for the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Law Foundation, Inc.

“Mahmood brings a combination of strategic vision, fundraising expertise, and deep experience in athletics as we build this program from the ground up,” said 51���� President Gordon Jones. “He understands how to develop sustainable models, cultivate community partnerships, and create opportunities that put students first. I am confident Mahmood will lay a strong foundation for intramurals and athletics that support student success and help prepare our graduates to thrive.”

Earlier this year, President Jones announced 51���� would establish intercollegiate athletics and an intramural program. Building on the College’s vision, 51���� will continue its commitment to serving the Treasure Valley by creating opportunities for students to engage in athletics at multiple levels.

The College plans to recruit local high school students, providing opportunities to pursue higher education while competing in collegiate sports. In addition, 51���� will offer intramural leagues and activities for students seeking recreation, wellness, and campus connection. Offerings will include both recreational and competitive formats so students can participate at the level that best matches their interests and experience. Athletic and intramural programs will continue to be shaped by the interests and needs of the Treasure Valley community.

“Our ambition is to launch sports through an endowment-funded model to ensure annual operational costs are made available before the first season begins and throughout the program’s history,” Jones said. “Rather than relying on yearly fundraising, this approach enables us to build high-quality, sustainable athletics supported by philanthropic contributions.”

As 51���� advances its vision for athletics, Sheikh brings both deep Idaho roots and extensive leadership experience to the role.

A native of Moscow, Idaho, Sheikh is a graduate of the University of Idaho, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. He is married to Amity (Vacura), and they have two children, Zain and Ara. He serves on the Live Foundation, Inc. Board, is an executive committee member of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl and is a former executive committee member of the National Association of Athletic Development Directors.

“I wish to thank President Jones, and all involved in the search process for their trust and confidence in me and my abilities. I look forward to working with President Jones who is a leader that balances strategic reflection with purposeful action,” Sheikh said. “As an Idahoan, I am fired up for this opportunity knowing that 98.6% of our student body hails from right here in the Gem State. Our work in athletics and intramurals will align with 51����’s role of championing accessibility, safeguarding affordability, and designing strong pathways for students and student-athletes. Otter Proud!” 

Sheikh will start in his new role on June 1. To connect about 51����’s launch of intramural and intercollegiate athletics, please contact athletics@cwi.edu.

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