John Vanner enters his 31st year at the University of Rhode Island in 2008-09, having worked in the athletics department since 1986.

Vanner is a graduate of the University and began working at the school in 1977 as a teacher in the physical education department.

In 1986 he replaced URI legend Ernie Calverly as the Associate Director of Athletics overseeing the men's program. He is credited with making several coaching hires that helped bring the University's athletics program to the national level.

Vanner's first hire was men's basketball coach Tom Penders, who led the Rams to the NCAA Sweet 16 in his second season in Kingston, bringing basketball back to the national spotlight.

He also hired former men's soccer coach Ed Bradley, former baseball coach Frank Leoni, and Hall of Fame golf coach Tom Drennan, who have each both guided their programs to postseason NCAA competition.

John lives in Johnston, R.I. with his wife Cynthia (URI Class of '82) and their three children, John (22), Torrey (19) and Jessica (17).

updated: 6/19/08