Theresa Hanson was named Director of Athletics at Saint Martin’s University in May 2025 after serving in an interim capacity beginning in October 2024. A proven leader with more than 25 years of experience in collegiate athletics administration, Hanson brings a strong record of strategic growth, student-athlete development and program advancement to Saints Athletics.
Hanson arrived at Saint Martin’s following nearly a decade at Simon Fraser University, where she led Canada’s only NCAA Division II athletics program. During her tenure, she oversaw more than 400 student-athletes while guiding significant initiatives in fundraising, facility development and long-term program sustainability, including leadership of a $22 million stadium project and expansion of athletic endowments.
Since joining Saint Martin’s, Hanson has made an immediate impact, helping the department exceed short-term fundraising goals, initiating key facility upgrades and strengthening relationships with coaches, alumni, donors and campus partners. Her leadership has fostered renewed momentum and a collaborative culture focused on enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.
A native of Trail, British Columbia, Hanson began her career in the financial sector before transitioning into athletics administration, where she quickly established herself as a trailblazer. She has been the first female athletic director at multiple institutions and has served on national leadership bodies including the NCAA Division II Management Council and the NCAA Division II Athletic Directors Association Board.
Hanson earned her bachelor’s degree in business from Lewis-Clark State College, where she was a student-athlete, and later completed a master’s degree in sport administration from the United States Sports Academy. A former basketball standout, she remains deeply committed to supporting student-athletes in their academic, athletic and personal development.
