March 13, 2008

IRVINE, Calif. --- Three individuals have been promoted within the UC Irvine Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, announced by Athletic Director Mike Izzi Thursday.

 Jim Pluemer, Robby Ray and Stacey Shackleford have each been named to Assistant Athletic Director positions.

Pluemer has been named Assistant Athletic Director - Sports Medicine. He has served as UCI's director of sports medicine since January 1992. Prior to arriving at UCI, he served in athletic training roles at UCLA, the New England Patriots, Syracuse University and the University of Wisconsin, his alma mater.

"This title change better reflects the role Jim plays in conducting the operation of our athletic program," Izzi said. "His talent as a creative and resourceful leader has allowed our student-athletes access to outstanding training and medical services. Jim has built a unit that represents excellence and quality while managing the multitude of complex issues that face any health care area."

Ray, a UCI graduate, has been promoted to Assistant Athletic Director - Marketing and Corporate Relations after serving the past five years in the sports marketing, promotions and development areas. He has been the director of corporate relations at UCI for the last two years.

"Robby has excelled in his role as the director of corporate relations and his promotion will facilitate even greater production in the area of sports marketing," said Izzi. "He possesses a keen understanding of the marketing challenges our department faces and he has the experience to develop a comprehensive approach to meeting those challenges. We look forward to Robby's creativity and unwavering commitment to UCI as he helps propel our department in this area."

Shackleford has been named Assistant Athletic Director - Athletic Communications at her alma mater. She has served the past 20 years with the UCI sports information/athletic communications office.

"Throughout her career, Stacey has provided the department with a level of professionalism that deserves recognition," Izzi said. "She has consistently served the best interests of the department in her position within athletic communications. She has been invaluable to the department with her dedication and commitment in presenting the achievements of our programs in the best possible manner.

"Our department has greatly benefited from the outstanding service and exceptional work that these three individuals have provided," Izzi added.