June 11, 2002

Mike Pratapas, Wake Forest University's associate athletic director for development since 1995, resigned from his position, Demon Deacon athletic director Ron Wellman announced today.

Pratapas, a four-year letterwinner on the Wake Forest football team from 1981-84, has been a key member of the athletic department's development efforts while playing a major role in the construction of new athletic facilities and facility upgrades. At Wake Forest, Pratapas was responsible for the administration of all fund-raising in the athletic department, including the Deacon Club scholarship program and capital campaigns such as "Touchdown 2000" which financed Bridger Field House. More recently he oversaw the fundraising efforts for the Kenneth D. Miller Center.

"I appreciate the fine job that Mike has done in our department in numerous capacities throughout his career," Wellman said. "We will miss him personally, and professionally."

Previously, Pratapas worked three years as an assistant director of the Deacon Club. He also worked within the athletic department as an academic counselor. A native of Chicago, Pratapas came to Wake Forest as a linebacker and offensive lineman. He also lettered in baseball in 1985. Pratapas holds both an undergraduate and a master's degree from the school.

Wellman said that a search for a replacement will begin immediately.