Simpson College welcomes Marty Bell as new athletics director

Simpson College president Marsha Kelliher announced today the hiring of Marty Bell as the College’s next director of athletics. Bell comes to Simpson from Quincy University, where he led the institution’s NCAA Division II athletic program for more than a decade.

Bell will be introduced to the campus community Jan. 4, 2021. The exact time and location of the introduction are yet to be determined.

“Marty Bell is a terrific fit for Simpson athletics,” Kelliher said. “He has tremendous leadership and administrative experience in collegiate athletics and will work to ensure the success of our student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. Those who know him describe him as a man of character who cares deeply about higher education and the student-athletes he serves. We are thrilled to welcome him to Simpson College.”

Bell oversaw tremendous growth in his 13-plus years directing the athletic program at Quincy, the last six of which he served as vice president for intercollegiate athletics. Quincy finished in the top half of the Great Lakes Valley Conference Commissioner’s Cup standings in 10 out of 12 seasons and the number of academic all-conference honorees more than doubled from 2012-17. Bell also oversaw upgrades to every athletic facility, increased the number of student-athletes by more than 50 percent and added multiple programs, including cross country, track and field, lacrosse and bowling.

“I am overwhelmingly excited about this opportunity,” Bell said. “I was so impressed with everyone I met during my interview. Having good people to work with every day creates a strong foundation for success. With President Kelliher’s vision and leadership and her plans for the future, I am eager to get to work. Athletics is an integral part of her vision and we will work together to ensure we elevate Simpson College to the best institution possible for its students, faculty and staff.”

Bell served as the head men’s basketball coach at Quincy from 2003-17, retiring as the second-winningest coach in program history. He guided the Hawks to five NCAA Tournament appearances in 14 seasons, compiling a record of 240-168. He previously served on the coaching staffs at Drake University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Lock Haven University and the University of South Carolina. 

Bell graduated from South Carolina with a degree in business administration. He earned his master’s degree from Penn State University.

Bell’s hiring comes following a two-month search process. He takes over for Keith Hackett, who served as interim athletics director since August 2020.

“We are thankful to Keith Hackett for his interim service to the college during uncertain times,” Kelliher said. “His steadfast leadership helped build the foundation for a promising future.”

About Simpson College
Simpson College is a private, liberal arts college located in Iowa with campuses in Indianola, West Des Moines and online. Founded in 1860, the college has 1,268 undergraduate and graduate students. Simpson offers 74 majors, minors and programs in addition to three graduate programs. Outside of the classroom, Simpson is a member of the NCAA Division III American Rivers Conference, hosts eight Greek houses on campus and sponsors many extracurricular options for student involvement.
 
Contact Information
Cathy Cole, Vice President for Marketing and Strategic Communication
Direct: 515-961-1595
Email: cathy.cole@simpson.edu