Columbia, SC — Change doesn't knock quietly. It steps in with vision, purpose, and a presence that shifts the atmosphere.

And for Allen University Athletics, that change now has a name: Stanley Cromartie.

The Yellow Jackets officially introduced Cromartie as their new Athletic Director this week, bringing in a seasoned leader with over 17 years of coaching and administrative experience, most recently serving as Athletic Director at national powerhouse Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida.

Mr. Cromartie's proven record of leadership, integrity, and innovation in athletic administration makes him an ideal fit for Allen University," said Dr. Ernest McNealey, President of Allen University. "His passion for developing student-athletes and elevating HBCU athletics aligns seamlessly with our mission and the continued advancement of Yellow Jacket Nation. We are delighted to welcome him to the Allen family.

With a proven track record at the highest levels of collegiate leadership, Cromartie now brings his talents back to the HBCU space — ready to pour into a culture that first poured into him.

"The potential of Allen is unbelievable. I haven't seen anything like it in quite some time," Cromartie said. "This program is ready for takeoff. The sky is the limit."

A Legacy of Leadership and Results

Cromartie's resume reads like a blueprint for athletic excellence:

• Former Director of Athletics at Edward Waters University, where he led the program to historic milestones — including the softball team's first NAIA National Tournament appearance and a conference championship.
• Assistant coach at NCAA Division I programs like Bethune-Cookman and South Carolina State University.
• Head coach at multiple levels, including Edward Waters College, Valencia College, and Seminole State College of Florida.
• Hall of Fame inductee in both the FCSAA and State College of Florida for his impact as a coach and builder of programs.

He's been a coach, a competitor, a connector — and a builder of champions.

He's also a father: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, former NFL Pro Bowl cornerback, played 12 seasons for teams like the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, and Denver Broncos.



"I Stand on the Shoulders…"

As Cromartie settled into his new office on campus, he opened a drawer and found a book titled "A Sense of Urgency." Call it a sign — because he wasted no time taking action.

"First, I stand on the shoulders of every Athletic Director who has come before me. I'm truly grateful for our President, Dr. McNealey, for having the trust in me and giving me this opportunity. I want to bring my experience, expertise, and connections to help take this entire athletic department to new heights."

Within hours of arriving, Cromartie called a mandatory all-coaches meeting. The message?

Family. Service. Excellence.

That same energy carried into a second meeting just hours later — this time with all student-athletes gathered in the gymnasium. And it was there, standing in front of hundreds of athletes, that Cromartie delivered the line that echoed through the walls:

"We're spread out too much. Everyone — let's get closer. Tighter. As programs. As people. We're a family here. This is Allen."

The students got the message. They stood. They smiled. They moved closer.

The energy shifted — and a reset had begun.

Vision Meets Urgency

Cromartie's vision for Allen University Athletics is laser focused:

• Build one of the most respected athletic programs in the SIAC and beyond
• Prioritize the student-athlete experience and graduation outcomes
• Establish a winning culture that competes for championships
• Engage the community, alumni, and university mission with pride

He's already proven he knows how to do it — and now, he's committed to bringing that blueprint to Columbia.

More Than a Hire — A New Standard

Allen University didn't just fill a position.

They sparked a movement — one built on vision, belief, and accountability.

The road ahead won't be easy. But Allen has a leader who sees the possibilities, understands the assignment, and embraces the challenge.

So if you feel something different in the air — a buzz, a shift, a spark?

You're not imagining it. The change is here.

And his name is Stanley Cromartie. We welcome you to The Hive.