Molloy University Appoints Alumnus Michael Grasso as New Athletic Director
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Molloy University has officially named alumnus Michael Grasso as the institution’s next Director of Athletics, signaling a new era for the university’s NCAA Division II sports programs and student-athlete development initiatives.
The announcement follows a nationwide search process that concluded with the selection of Grasso, a longtime Molloy administrator and graduate of the university’s Class of 2006. After serving in the interim role since August 2025, he is scheduled to formally begin his tenure as permanent athletic director on June 8, 2026.
University officials described the appointment as a natural progression for a leader who has spent nearly 20 years helping shape the direction of Molloy Athletics. During his time at the university, Grasso advanced through multiple leadership positions, including Senior Associate Athletic Director and Associate Athletic Director for Compliance and Academics.
Throughout his career at Molloy, Grasso became known for focusing on the full student-athlete experience rather than athletics alone. His responsibilities included overseeing academic performance initiatives, NCAA compliance standards, and programs aimed at supporting student well-being across the university’s 19 Division II athletic teams.
During his interim leadership period, Grasso managed the department through a significant transition while supervising operational strategy, staffing, athletics scholarships, and long-term planning efforts. University officials said he also played an important role in fundraising and resource development initiatives alongside advancement leadership.
Administrators emphasized that Grasso’s leadership style aligns closely with the university’s Dominican values, particularly its emphasis on integrity, service, academic achievement, and personal growth.
Speaking about the appointment, Grasso said the opportunity carries deep personal meaning because of his longstanding connection to the university community. He noted that supporting student-athletes both academically and competitively remains one of his highest priorities moving forward.
University leadership also praised Grasso’s institutional knowledge and vision for the future of the athletics department. Officials highlighted his ability to strengthen collaboration across campus while maintaining a strong focus on competitive excellence and student success.
Molloy Athletics has continued to expand its profile within Division II sports in recent years, and university leaders believe Grasso’s familiarity with the institution positions him well to guide the program through its next phase of development.
Located in Rockville Centre on Long Island, Molloy University serves approximately 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Founded in 1955 by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville, the university offers programs spanning nursing, business, education, allied health sciences, music therapy, social work, and other academic disciplines.
