Athletic Director | Indiana University Bloomington
Conference: Big Ten
Hired: 7/1/2020
Hometown: Michigan City, IN
Alma Mater: Indiana University Bloomington
Degree(s): Management
Overview
Dolson currently serves as the Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Indiana University, a role he has held since March 2020. Dolson signed a 3-year contract extension in May 2024. He serves on President Whitten’s leadership cabinet. The IU alum was a student manager for the men’s basketball team under legendary Head Coach Bob Knight.
Prior to becoming AD, Dolson served as Deputy AD at IU for 10+ years. During his tenure leading the department, Dolson has focused on revenue generation, fundraising and rebuilding the football program by hiring Curt Cignetti.
Career Timeline
[2020–Present] – Athletic Director, IU
[2009–2020] – Deputy Athletic Director, IU
[2002–2009] – Director of IU Varsity Club, IU
Major Accomplishments
- 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship
- Hired Head Football Coach Curt Cignetti in November 2023
- Currently working with outside firm to improve football stadium
- Achieved record-breaking financial success in the 2025 fiscal year, reporting $183.4 million in revenue and a $10.4 million surplus, driven largely by a surging football program, increased Big Ten media rights, and strong donor support. The football program generated $80.9 million, while overall revenue grew 10% year-over-year.
Hiring Context
Previous Athletic Director: Fred Glass
Reason Position Opened: Retirement
Search Firm: None Used
Contract Details
(If publicly available)
Contract Start/Extended: March 2020; Extended May 2024
Contract Expiration: May 2027
Base Salary: $950,000 (up from $519,000 in original contract)
Total Compensation:
Retention Bonuses:
Buyout Terms:
Media & Interviews
- Business and Beyond with Gerry Dick (October 2025)
- Sideline Stories (September 2025)
- Explaining Stadium Naming Rights Deal (August 2025)
- The Industrious Podcast (August 2025)
- Hollowood – The Interview at IU (April 2025)
- Bison Drops (November 2024)
- Athletic Director U (January 2022)