David Blackburn was announced as Milligan’s new athletic director in April. He comes to
Milligan after almost four decades of experience in intercollegiate athletics.
“Helping people and helping to contribute to the greater mission and cause of the school is
number one,” he said when describing how he defines success in his role as athletic director.
“That’s changed from always focusing on winning. I used to just only worry about winning, and
as I’ve gotten older and my life has changed, I realized that helping people, being part of the
solution, a greater mission and a greater vision, is more important than just times or scores.”
Blackburn describes himself as dedicated, caring and humble. Home is Blackburn’s favorite
place to be. The 61-year-old is married and the father of two. His oldest daughter, Emma, is 30
years old. His younger daughter, Charlee, died suddenly at age 14 two years ago.
“I’m very social,” he said, describing himself. “I’m very active in the community. I love to
exercise.” Coffee is how Blackburn starts most days. Laughter, football, conversations and time
with God are part of his daily routine. In his free time, Blackburn plays golf and watches
football. His favorite professional team is the Cleveland Browns. He also enjoys watching
sitcoms such as “King of Queens” and “The Big Bang Theory,” while he does not willingly
watch “Harry Potter,” except with his family.
Blackburn started his career as a coach at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville before
transitioning to administrative roles, including leadership roles at East Tennessee State
University, the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, the University of Tennessee at
Chattanooga and Middle Tennessee State University. Blackburn most recently held senior
leadership positions at ETSU, including general manager of revenue sports from 2022 to 2025.
The Morristown, Tennessee, native holds a Bachelor of Science in education from the University
of Tennessee.
“To continue to build upon the success that has occurred. There’s been tremendous success here
at Milligan athletically. And I would like to ratchet that up and improve that,” Blackburn said of
his vision for Milligan athletics. “I would like to grow revenue so that we are bringing in more
money to directly help the student-athletes and the coaches.”
Beyond his goals for the program, Blackburn also emphasized the importance of making the
most of the college athletic experience.
“Enjoy your time. There are very few people that get to play college athletics regardless of the
level, and just enjoy it, be appreciative of it and maximize it,” he said.
Photo: Headshot of David Blackburn (Photo provided by Milligan PR)
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